Cool Connections, Inc.

Does Your Attic in Jacksonville, FL, Need More Insulation?

Wed, 13 Dec 2023 14:19:00 GMT

It’s normal for the cost of heating to increase somewhat during the winter, but it shouldn’t be massive. A few different things can cause skyrocketing heating bills, and often enough, your heating system may be the real source of the problem. If you have called a heating repair service technician and eliminated this possibility, you should turn your attention to your insulation.

If your attic is well-insulated, it should prevent heat from escaping, making it easier for your heater to do its work. With poor insulation, heat will escape, forcing your heating system to work harder and raising your energy bills. The same problem could also occur during the summer with your AC system since insulation helps keep your home cool by preventing heat from seeping inside.

Higher Energy Bills

Though people often overlook it, attic insulation has an important role in controlling your home’s temperature and improving efficiency. If you notice any of these signs, you may need more insulation in the attic of your Jacksonville, FL, home:

Pest Infestation Issues

Bugs, mice and other pests can eat or burrow through your insulation. If you find such pests in your attic, it’s likely that this is precisely what happened. To deal with this problem, you need to both remove or exterminate the pests already present and strengthen your attic insulation so that they don’t return.

Moisture buildup can wreak catastrophic damage to your attic walls and roof. The presence of biological growth indicates that you have no insulation at all or that the insulation that you do have is inadequate.

Attic insulation can increase the effectiveness of your HVAC system and protect your roof and walls from damage. Under-insulation can have some pretty nasty consequences. Call Cool Connections, Inc. for the best insulation services in Jacksonville, FL, and avoid these problems.

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Moisture Damage

3 Habits That Damage Your Home’s Air Quality in Middleburg, FL

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 16:12:00 GMT

One of the most common bad habits we see is that many homeowners never clean their clothes dryer vent ducts. If you neglect to clean your dryer vent duct, the result is that your clothes dryer blows dust and tiny lint particles into the air. Even worse, your risk of a household fire increases.

Never Cleaning the Dryer Duct

Middleburg, FL, is a great place to raise a family and enjoy the best that life has to offer. However, there are some habits that can affect your quality of life. One of them is contributing to poor indoor air quality. Below are three common habits that can damage your home’s IAQ and cause you to become sick or uncomfortable.

Smoking in the House

You might like to enjoy kicking back and smoking a cigarette or pipe in your spare time. But if you’re smoking in the house, please understand that every other person living in it is effectively smoking right along with you, even your children.

Secondhand smoke is a major indoor air pollutant that can be harmful to your family’s health. But there are IAQ solutions to filter smoke and eliminate smoking odors. Smoking indoors is one of the reasons to add an air purifier or similar device to your HVAC system.

Water leaks in your home come in all sizes and can originate from many different sources. When that water sits, even if it’s just a little drip or small puddle here and there, it becomes a breeding ground for biological contaminants and musty odors that reduce your IAQ and can seriously damage your health.

Whether your water leaks are in your walls or floors, it’s important to fix the problem as soon as possible to prevent further damage. Water remediation is costly but avoidable if you act quickly.

Don’t let these bad habits damage the air quality in your home. Contact Cool Connections, Inc. today for IAQ solutions for your home .

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Ignoring Water Leaks and Musty Odors

Is My Jacksonville, FL, Heat Pump Compressor Faulty?

Sat, 14 Oct 2023 15:32:00 GMT

Normally, when a heat pump is running and working properly, you may hear a low humming noise coming from the system. However, when the compressor is starting to fail, it may make screeching noises as it struggles to function. These sounds are often accompanied by vibrations.

In contrast, you may also find that the system isn’t making the humming noise that you have become accustomed to hearing. Either way, hearing something unusual is a sign that something could be amiss.

Odd, Loud Noises or None at All

When the heat pump in your Jacksonville, FL, home is no longer keeping your home comfortable, one common cause of the issue is a bad compressor. Below are some signs that can help guide you as you try to determine whether the heat pump compressor is faulty.

Constant Overheating

When there’s damage to the surface of the compressor or the surface has dust, dirt and grime, the exchange of hot and cold air becomes blocked. When there’s a disruption to the flow of air exchange, the compressor may start to constantly overheat after running for more than a few minutes. Scheduling regular maintenance on your home’s heat pump can help prevent this buildup of dirt.

When the compressor is failing, you may find that the heat pump refuses to turn on at all or only comes on intermittently. A malfunctioning compressor may trigger the safety switch, which will keep the system from coming on. Since refusal to turn on is a sign of other problems within the heat pump, you should have a repair service technician determine the definitive cause of the issue.

Our professionals at Cool Connections, Inc. have provided heat pump repair services to customers in the Jacksonville area since 2009, so contact us today to schedule an appointment. We can troubleshoot and fix the problems with your home heat pump’s compressor.

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Refuses to Turn On

How to Choose the Right Smart Thermostat in Jacksonville, FL

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 01:36:00 GMT

Smart thermostats are available in various styles, from chic and contemporary to simple and utilitarian models. It’s important to consider your personal preferences and how the thermostat will harmonize with your home’s interior. Although the design doesn’t directly affect functionality, an aesthetically pleasing device can add elegance to your living environment.

When selecting smart thermostats, also factor in the user interface. A user-friendly interface will enhance your ability to smoothly navigate settings and effortlessly adjust temperature.

Optimal User Interface

In this rapidly advancing technological landscape, selecting the ideal thermostat for your Jacksonville, FL, home can appear overwhelming. Smart thermostats have transformed heating and cooling with remarkable energy efficiency and convenience. If you’re contemplating upgrading to a smart thermostat, we’ll help you explore the options and make an informed decision.

Cost

You must consider the costs of acquiring the smart thermostat and installation. Although some models are easier to install, hiring a professional for HVAC system installation is usually best. Additionally, consider the financial implications of any extra features you desire, such as energy monitoring or automated scheduling.

It’s worth noting that certain smart thermostat models may necessitate a monthly subscription fee for access to specific functionalities. Thus, consider this in your budget when planning for your new device.

Before purchasing a smart thermostat, verifying its compatibility with your home’s heating and cooling system is crucial. Specific models work with particular HVAC systems, so this check is essential before purchasing.

Also, ensure the chosen thermostat works with your other smart home devices, like speakers and lights. Otherwise, you won’t be able to control all your devices conveniently from a centralized location.

Compatibility

Energy Savings

While a smart thermostat doesn’t use much energy, it controls energy-intensive heating and cooling systems. Smart thermostat manufacturers must prove their model’s ability to reduce HVAC usage in diverse national climates to earn Energy Star compliance.

Energy Star certifies smart thermostats based on independent validation using real-world data to confirm energy-saving capabilities. Moreover, Energy Star smart thermostats must enter low-power standby mode when not in use, further saving energy.

Invest wisely in the perfect smart thermostat to enhance comfort, save money and make your home smarter and more energy conscious. Contact Cool Connections, Inc. for professional AC repair and installation services.

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4 Health Benefits of Modern Air Conditioning in St. Johns, FL

Fri, 18 Aug 2023 15:37:00 GMT

Modern AC systems come equipped with advanced filters that effectively remove allergens, dust particles and pollutants from the air. This improved indoor air quality reduces allergy symptoms and creates a healthier indoor environment for residents, especially those with respiratory conditions.

Improved Air Quality

In the sunny paradise of St. Johns, FL, where temperatures can soar during the summer, air conditioning has become a household necessity. Beyond relieving the sweltering heat, modern AC systems offer numerous health benefits, contributing to a better and more comfortable living environment. Let’s delve into the positive health impact of air conditioning.

Stress Reduction

Staying cool and comfortable through modern air conditioning can help reduce stress levels. Comfortable indoor environments create a relaxed atmosphere, improving mental well-being and happiness. Residents also tend to sleep better and feel more energized in cool temperatures.

Air conditioning systems provide residents with comfortable and safe indoor environments, promoting proper breathing. In poorly ventilated areas, residents could risk developing respiratory conditions such as asthma, bronchitis and upper respiratory infections. The benefits of a clean and healthy indoor environment include improved health and lower absenteeism rates among employees who work in air-conditioned offices and live in air-conditioned homes.

Increased Respiratory Health

Stop Insects and Parasites

Modern air conditioning ventilates interiors well and provides residents with a safe and clean indoor environment where tiny insects and parasites cannot thrive. An air-conditioned space provides cool and dry conditions, deterring insects that seek warmth and moisture.

Modern air conditioning is more than just a luxury — it’s an investment in your well-being. Our expertise in HVAC service and dedication to customer satisfaction make us a top choice to assist you. Contact Cool Connections, Inc. for AC installation services in St. Johns, FL.

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What’s That Strange Smell Coming From My Heat Pump?

Sun, 16 Jul 2023 15:26:00 GMT

If you notice a burning smell coming from your heat pump, it could mean that some system component is overheating and sizzling. More likely, it means that dust has accumulated on the blower or the electric heat strips. The smell you’ve noticed is the smell of burning dust. In either case, schedule an HVAC repair to find and fix the problem.

Burning Smells

Any strange smell coming from your heat pump in Jacksonville, FL, is a surefire sign that something is wrong. In most cases, you’ll need to schedule a professional repair or maintenance service. However, not every smell has the same significance. Here are four strange heat pump odors and what they mean for your system:

Sweet or Formaldehyde-Like Smells

Sweet smells like this are the signature indicators of a refrigerant leak. Refrigerant is a hazardous substance that smells sweet and ether-like. If you notice this odor in your home or around your outdoor unit, call a professional to schedule AC repairs right away.

Smells like these indicate that moisture has accumulated somewhere in your heat pump where it shouldn’t have — probably in the system’s drain pan or condensate line. As this moisture accumulates, it enables the growth of biological contaminants or various types of bacteria inside your system. This is where the musty odor comes from.

Musty Smells

Rotten Egg Smells

This sort of smell, if you encounter it, can be unbearable. It usually indicates that a mouse or other small animal has crawled into your system somewhere and died. To remove the odor, you’ll need a professional to open up your heat pump and remove the carcass.

A bad smell coming from your heat pump in Jacksonville is always a serious sign. If something smells funny, call our team at Cool Connections, Inc. Ask for our HVAC services and we’ll clear the air for you.

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4 Ways to Remedy Your Home’s Poor Indoor Airflow

Sat, 17 Jun 2023 15:37:00 GMT

Ceiling fans can improve air circulation throughout a room and across different areas of your house. This can create a more comfortable indoor temperature and increase the efficiency of your heating and cooling systems.

When installing ceiling fans, make sure that they spin in a counterclockwise direction during the warm months. This will create a cooling downdraft. Reverse the spin in the winter to provide an updraft of warm air.

Install Ceiling Fans

Poor airflow in your home can lead to several issues. They can include excessive dust and allergens circulating throughout the house to higher energy bills due to inefficient heating and cooling. Fortunately, you can remedy poor airflow in your Jacksonville, FL, home in several ways.

Replace Your HVAC Filters

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, it’s essential to reduce or remove the sources of pollutants to obtain good ventilation indoors. Regularly replacing air filters helps clean the air and maintain good indoor air quality. It also helps to increase the efficiency of your HVAC system by removing dust particles and other airborne contaminants from the circulating air.

Ducts accumulate dust and other debris over time that can block the airflow through them. By having your ducts professionally cleaned , you can ensure that this critical source of ventilation remains clear and open for optimal airflow throughout your home.

Schedule Duct Cleaning Services

Properly Sealing Doors and Windows

Get a professional to inspect and replace any seals, weather-stripping or caulking around your doors and windows. Replacing these items can help reduce air leakage from yo ur home, significantly improving airflow.

Poor airflow can cause discomfort and reduced air quality in your home. Contact Cool Connections, Inc. to help improve indoor air quality and ensure you can enjoy the comfort of your home. We’re happy to help you.

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Do You Need a New Air Conditioner in Jacksonville, FL?

Wed, 03 May 2023 17:37:00 GMT

As a rule, once an AC system is 20 years old or older, it’s a good idea to change it out for a new model. Regular maintenance by trained service technicians and replacing defective parts can extend the life of your air conditioner quite a bit, but over time, the costs of doing these things can grow to a prohibitive level.

Your System Is Old

With the legendary heat of summer in Jacksonville, FL, fast approaching, it’s wise to remember that air conditioners are unfortunately no exception to the adage that nothing lasts forever. Even with regular maintenance and diligent care, every appliance is bound to expire sooner or later. Here are some important signs that your air conditioner is nearing the end of its days:

Your Energy Costs Are Exploding

If you notice your energy bills suddenly and inexplicably ballooning during the spring or summer, this is a strong sign that your AC system may be on its last legs. If your energy costs sharply rise, this doesn’t necessarily mean that your utility company has raised its rates. It may be that your air conditioner is old, losing its power to cool and overdue for a replacement.

Loud bangs, squeaking sounds, whirring, whistling, rattling or other noises are all signs of underlying issues affecting the performance of your AC system. The specific issue afflicting your system varies with the type of noise that it emits. For example, a banging noise may be a sign of a broken compressor, while whistling or squealing may indicate a refrigerant leak.

Similarly, foul-smelling air should never emerge from your air conditioner. If it does, this could indicate a significant underlying problem. Possible reasons for foul smells include biological contaminants in your air filter, a clogged drain line, a refrigerant leak or a dead animal trapped in the air conditioner.

You Notice Loud Noises or Foul Smells

Excessive Moisture Is Building Up

Every AC system inevitably generates some amount of condensation, but if you notice extreme amounts of it building up, this could indicate that your system is leaking refrigerant or that its evaporator coil has malfunctioned. Accumulating condensation can eventually lead to the buildup of microbial in your ducts, which will lead to even more serious issues.

Although deciding to replace an air conditioner is somewhat subjective, it’s worth considering if you notice some of the signs above. When you’re ready for a new AC system, call Cool Connections, Inc. for expert AC installation services in Jacksonville, FL.

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Why Your Heat Pump Trips the Circuit Breaker in Orange Park, FL

Thu, 13 Apr 2023 15:34:00 GMT

If you’re using too many appliances in your home, it can overload the circuit. Overloading can cause a short circuit or an electricity overload to your system, which will trip the breaker. Ensure that all large appliances are on their own circuits and not overloading the system to avoid this issue.

Overloading

If you’re a homeowner in Orange Park, FL, having your heat pump trip the circuit breaker can be a huge inconvenience. It’s important to understand why this could happen so that you can take steps to avoid it in the future. Here are some reasons your heat pump might trip the circuit breaker:

Faulty Wiring

If the wiring in your home isn’t up to code, it can cause problems with your heat pump. When you turn on your system, faulty wiring can lead to shorts and overloads that trip the circuit breaker. Short circuits can also result from frayed wires, improperly wired plugs, outlets or faulty electrical panels.

When the compressor in your heat pump malfunctions, it can cause an overload on the circuit and trip the breaker. The compressor is responsible for circulating the refrigerant through the system. When it fails, your heat pump may not receive enough power to operate properly. This can lead to a short circuit, and the breaker will trip.

Compressor Malfunction

Faulty Thermostat

The thermostat regulates your home’s temperature, so if it isn’t working properly, it can cause an overload on the circuit when you turn on your heat pump. A malfunctioning thermostat can also cause the system to run longer than it should and trip the breaker. Have a qualified service technician inspect your thermostat to see if it needs a maintenance repair or replacement .

If you have issues with your heat pump tripping the circuit breaker, first call an electrician to check out the wiring and electrical panel. If the electrician can’t fix the problem, contact Cool Connections, Inc. to diagnose the issue and recommend the appropriate repair . Our service technicians can help keep your home comfortable and energy-efficient.

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Why Is My Smart Thermostat Screen Blank in St. Johns, FL

Tue, 14 Mar 2023 15:34:00 GMT

Thermostats that don’t have a common wire won’t be able to draw their power from your electrical system. Instead, they require alkaline or lithium batteries that frequently need replacing. The best way to catch this before the device completely dies is to watch for the blinking low battery indicator on the display.

Dead Batteries

A blank thermostat screen doesn’t necessarily mean something is seriously wrong with your HVAC system. Most of the time, this issue can be quickly fixed before you experience any changes in your indoor comfort. Here are the most common reasons behind your smart thermostat screen going blank in St. Johns, FL.

Loose Wiring

Occasionally, your thermostat’s wiring may become loose or damaged due to rodents, old age or moisture issues. Rather than try to reconnect them yourself and risk shocking or electrocution, call for professional HVAC maintenance . Regular service is the ideal way to keep your thermostat in peak condition for as long as possible.

Residential furnaces come with a safety feature called a high-limit switch that will activate if the system begins to overheat. When the switch flips, it cuts off all power to the furnace, which in turn leads to a blank thermostat screen. The issue may be as small as a malfunctioning condensate pan or as large as a compromised heat exchanger.

Tripped Safety Switch

Tripped Circuit Breaker

Many modern thermostats draw their power directly from your home’s electricity supply. When the room’s circuit trips, it will turn off all your electronics as well as your thermostat. Resetting your circuit breaker should bring your thermostat back online.

A blank smart thermostat screen could point to a tripped circuit breaker or safety switch. It may also mean its internal batteries are dead or that there’s an issue with its wiring. Call Cool Connections, Inc. to schedule a premium HVAC service appointment in St. Johns, FL.

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Duct Cleaning Helps Reduce the Risk of These Dangers

Tue, 21 Feb 2023 16:38:00 GMT

The first danger associated with dirty ducts is higher heating and cooling bills. If your ductwork has a thick layer of dirt, dust and debris, it’ll inhibit your HVAC system from pushing conditioned air into your living spaces freely. As a result, your heater or air conditioner will work harder, increasing your monthly heating and cooling expenses.

Higher Energy Bills

Most homeowners in Jacksonville, FL, rarely think about their HVAC system’s ductwork. That’s because it sits behind walls, out of sight and out of mind. The truth is that your ducts are vital components of your HVAC system. Scheduling duct cleaning is critical to avoiding these dangers that will add stress to your life.

More Frequent Breakdowns

Straining to push conditioned air into your living spaces can eventually lead some components of your HVAC system to malfunction. The dirt, dust and debris can also get into the internal parts of your heater or air conditioner, impacting their operation. All of this results in more frequent breakdowns and higher HVAC repair costs.

If your HVAC system has to work harder to heat and cool your living spaces, it won’t last as long as a unit that operates efficiently. Premature HVAC replacements are expensive. Avoiding them will save you money and stress.

Short HVAC System Lifespan

Negative Health Effects

Perhaps the most notable danger of dirty ducts is the negative health effects it causes by worsening your indoor air quality. Filthy ductwork recirculates particle pollutants that aggravate allergy and asthma symptoms.

Do you suspect your ducts are dirty? You won’t know for sure until you schedule a duct cleaning service. Contact Cool Connections, Inc. at your earliest convenience to book an appointment to clean your ductwork. We follow a comprehensive step-by-step process to ensure we reach every nook and cranny of your HVAC system’s air ducts.

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3 Benefits of Energy Recovery Ventilators in St. Johns, FL

Fri, 27 Jan 2023 14:08:00 GMT

Poor indoor air quality is a serious issue. The EPA estimates that the air inside most buildings is two to five times more polluted than typical outdoor air. An energy recovery ventilator is a great solution for improving indoor air quality . The unit will replenish your home’s air and lower the concentration of airborne pollutants and allergens.

Improved Indoor Air Quality

Of all the types of home ventilators, an energy recovery ventilator can be a great addition to your St. Johns, FL, home. These units work by drawing air out of the home and bringing fresh air inside. Here’s a quick overview to help you understand why energy recovery ventilators can be a good investment for your home.

Lower Energy Costs

Energy recovery ventilators don’t just bring fresh air in and draw stale air out, as this would quickly raise your home’s temperature in the summer and lower it in the winter. To overcome this problem, these units pre-cool or pre-heat the incoming air by absorbing heat from either the incoming or outgoing air stream and transferring it to the other stream. This helps to prevent major temperature fluctuations. As a result, your HVAC system won’t need to work as hard and your energy bills will be lower.

Many newer homes have more issues with indoor air pollution and high indoor humidity. That’s because they tend to have fewer gaps where air can get in or out. This isn’t a major issue with older homes, which usually have more gaps in their exterior structure. However, in newer homes, it can be difficult to keep the humidity level in check without some type of mechanical ventilation.

In most homes, the only real effective way to refresh the air is to open windows to create a through draft. That’s not always an option in Florida, as it would also allow lots of heat and humidity inside. Energy recovery ventilators help to prevent this issue. They also absorb humidity from the incoming air and transfer it to the outgoing air stream. This means that the unit will help keep your air cleaner without bringing in all the heat and humidity like you would with open windows.

If you’re concerned about your home’s air quality, an energy recovery ventilator might be the perfect solution. To learn more about the benefits energy recovery ventilators provide, or if you need to schedule any HVAC service in St. Johns, FL, contact Cool Connections, Inc. today.

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Reduced Indoor Humidity

4 Signs You Need to Replace Your Heat Pump

Sun, 18 Dec 2022 16:38:00 GMT

If your heat pump needs frequent repairs, it may be time to start shopping for a replacement. Frequent repairs can be expensive, and in some cases, they may not be worth the money spent on them. In addition, recurrent repairs can be an indication that your heat pump isn’t running as efficiently.

Heat Pump Needs Frequent Repairs

A heat pump is a major investment, so it’s no surprise that homeowners want to get the most out of their purchases. However, there comes a time when even the best heat pump needs replacing with a new model. Here are signs that indicate you need to replace your heat pump in Jacksonville Beach, FL:

Heating or Cooling is Inconsistent

Your heat pump should provide consistent heating and cooling throughout your home. If you’ve noticed that certain rooms are warmer or cooler than others, it could be a sign that your heat pump isn’t operating at peak efficiency. Inefficiency can lead to higher utility bills and uneven temperatures throughout your home.

Rising utility bills are often one of the first signs that something is wrong with your heating and cooling system. If you’ve noticed an uptick in your energy usage without any change in your daily routines, it’s possible that your heat pump is no longer running as efficiently as it once was and needs replacement.

Utility Bills Keep Creeping Up

While all HVAC systems make some noise when they’re running, strange noises coming from your heat pump could be an indication of trouble. Grinding, squealing or banging noises mean there’s something wrong with the unit, and you should get it checked out by one of our professionals as soon as possible.

Our team is here to help you. If you’re looking for heating installation or repair services in Jacksonville Beach, FL, call Cool Connections, Inc.

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Heat Pump Makes Strange Noises

Should My Heat Pump Run All the Time?

Sun, 13 Nov 2022 16:45:00 GMT

A service technician sizes your HVAC system by considering the square footage of your home, insulation levels, the number of windows and more. If they don’t size your system correctly, it’ll work harder and run longer to maintain the desired home temperature. Consult a certified and experienced heating installation expert to help you figure out the proper size your heat pump. By doing so, you’ll prevent such problems.

Undersized System

Many homeowners in Jacksonville, FL, use a heat pump to heat and cool their homes. Heat pumps are very efficient at maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures. But if yours runs all the time, there may be a problem. Here are possible reasons your heat pump may run continuously.

Dirty Coils

The coils in your system play an important role in heating and cooling your home. The coils can become dirty over time, which prevents them from absorbing or releasing heat effectively. This causes your system to run continuously to compensate for lost efficiency.

Your heat pump uses refrigerant to transfer heat indoors and outdoors. If there’s a leak in the system, it can cause it to run continuously to make up for the lost refrigerant. Low refrigerant in the system can also cause it to freeze, which will cause it to stop working altogether.

Refrigerant Leaks

If your thermostat isn’t working properly, it may cause your heat pump to run continuously. Thermostat issues result from various factors, including dusty sensors and incorrect settings. Replace the old thermostat with a new programmable model that allows you to better control the heating and cooling in your home.

If you think your heat pump is running too much, contact Cool Connections, Inc. to inspect it and perform the necessary maintenance and repairs. We’ll ensure that your system runs efficiently and keeps you comfortable all year long.

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Thermostat Issues

5 Causes of Poor Airflow and Its Impact on HVAC Efficiency

Thu, 13 Oct 2022 15:39:00 GMT

When dirt and dust clog the filter, they restrict airflow, making it harder for your HVAC system to do its job. To fix this problem, let our professionals perform maintenance on your system and replace your air filters regularly.

Dirty Air Filters

Did you know that poor airflow is one of the most common problems with HVAC systems? In Orange Park, FL, there are multiple causes of poor airflow that can significantly impact your comfort and energy bills. Here are five of the most common causes of poor airflow and what you can do about them:

Ductwork Issues

If there are any leaks, holes or blockages in your ductwork, it can cause poor airflow. Causes of these issues can be anything from animals nesting in your ducts to damaged insulation. It’s important to schedule duct cleaning by a skilled service technician if you suspect any problems.

If any air vents close, it can restrict airflow to certain areas of your home and cause your HVAC system to work harder than necessary. Ensure all your air vents are open and clear of any obstructions.

Closing Air Vents

If your HVAC system isn’t properly designed for your home, it can cause airflow problems. This is usually a problem in older homes that have renovations without properly considering the HVAC system.

Poorly Designed HVAC System

Thermostat Issues

When your thermostat isn’t working properly, it can also impact the airflow in your home. If you have an old thermostat, it may be time to upgrade to a newer model. Or, if you have a programmable thermostat, ensure its setting is accurate.

If you’re having any issues with the indoor air quality in your home, contact the experts at Cool Connections, Inc. We can help you troubleshoot the problem and find a solution that will keep you comfortable all year long.

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5 Signs You Need a New Thermostat in Jacksonville, FL

Fri, 09 Sep 2022 14:39:00 GMT

Correct readings are essential for thermostats to function efficiently. If you notice yours is registering the wrong temperatures, it might be time for a new one. Faulty readings can cause your HVAC system to overwork, leading to energy waste and higher utility bills.

Faulty Readings

Most households in Jacksonville, FL, use HVAC systems to regulate indoor temperatures. The HVAC system uses a thermostat to regulate the temperature in your home by turning it on and off as needed. Here are some signs that indicate it’s time for you to invest in a new thermostat.

Old Age

If your device is more than 10 years old, it might be time for a new one. Just like any other appliance in your home, thermostats have a lifespan and will eventually need replacement. Replacing an old thermostat can help improve the efficiency of your HVAC system.

If there are sudden temperature changes or your device can’t maintain a consistent temperature, it also indicates that you may need a new thermostat. This happens when the thermostat is no longer able to effectively communicate with your HVAC system.

Temperature Inconsistencies

Good thermostats should be able to turn on and off as needed to maintain comfortable temperatures. However, if you notice that your device is turning on and off too frequently, it’s a sign that it’s not working properly. Try to increase the temperature setting to see if it makes a difference.

Persistent On and Off Cycles

Increase in Utility Bills

If you’ve noticed a sudden increase in utility bills, it might be due to an inefficient thermostat. A new thermostat will help you save money by regulating the temperature in your home more effectively.

If you’re experiencing any of the above issues, it’s time to replace your thermostat. Talk to us at Cool Connections, Inc. to find out which type of thermostat is best for your home and needs. We will help you find one that’s both energy-efficient and easy to use.

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How Your Windows Affect AC Efficiency

Wed, 03 Aug 2022 14:39:00 GMT

If your home’s windows aren’t sealed properly, they can allow the cool air from your home to escape while letting hot, humid outdoor air make its way inside. As a result, this can make it feel like your AC system isn’t working properly. In response, you may end up lowering the thermostat’s setting, making your air conditioner struggle to cool your home. This can result in higher energy bills and potentially even damage your AC system.

Air Leakage

Have you noticed that the air conditioning system in your home doesn’t seem to be working as effectively? While you might suspect several things, the real culprit could be your windows. Keep reading to find out how your windows affect your AC system’s efficiency in your Jacksonville, FL, home.

Contaminants and Clogged Filters

A drafty window might not just let cold air out; it can also let outdoor air inside, which can include dust, dirt, pollen and other pollutants. As a result, it can lead to poor indoor air quality . Your air conditioner’s filter traps any contaminants that make their way into your indoor air, like pet dander and dust. But outdoor debris making its way inside can make your filter clog faster. If it clogs, that puts strain on your AC system and reduces its efficiency.

It might surprise you to learn that window technology is constantly improving; in fact, older windows aren’t as energy-efficient as newer ones. Double-pane windows, along with other innovations, are better at keeping excess heat out of your home than traditional single-pane ones. If you haven’t updated the windows in your home, your AC system might be struggling unnecessarily to beat the heat.

To keep your home and family protected and comfortable, contact Cool Connections, Inc. for all your HVAC needs . Our expert service technicians will ensure that your AC system is working its best at all times.

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Heat From Older Windows

Injection Foam vs. Spray Foam Insulation in Jacksonville, FL

Fri, 22 Jul 2022 18:08:00 GMT

The most significant difference between the two insulating materials is how they’re installed. They both do a fantastic job creating an impenetrable air seal, making your home incredibly energy-efficient and increasing comfort levels. Yet, these materials work better in different areas of the house.

The Difference is Where the Materials Are Installed

Many homeowners in Jacksonville, FL, want to lower their energy bills. An effective way to do this is through energy-efficient home improvements such as an insulation installation. Learn the differences between injection foam and spray foam insulation to know which is suitable for your house.

Injection Foam Installation in Existing Walls

If your home’s exterior walls feel hot or cold to the touch during extreme temperatures, they’re probably not insulated well. Injecting foam installation into the walls can fix this problem without creating a mess. The insulation is injected into the walls from the outside, so drywall doesn’t have to get torn out.

The installer will remove a piece of the siding to begin the process and drill a hole into the stud cavity. As the foam’s injected, it fills the cavities between the studs. After the injection, the holes get filled, and the siding is replaced.

Open spaces in your home include areas like the attic or the crawl space. Before applying the spray foam, the installers remove any existing insulation in the attic or crawl space. Once the spray foam is applied, it adheres to the surface.

Aside from how and where spray foam’s applied, its stickiness separates it from injection foam. Also, it takes longer to apply spray foam because more prep work needs to be done, such as moving furniture and covering surfaces with plastic.

Since 2009, we’ve helped more people improve their homes’ energy efficiency by recommending the best products and services. We offer high-quality heating cooling, and insulation services , so call Cool Connections, Inc. today to learn more about your options.

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Spray Foam Installation Works Best in Open Spaces

4 Reasons You Should Never Skip Professional Annual AC Maintenance

Sat, 04 Jun 2022 17:43:00 GMT

When your AC system breaks down or fails altogether, it can mean hundreds or thousands of dollars in unexpected repair or replacement costs. In addition, if your AC system is old enough to be out of warranty, those costs could increase. Scheduling regular AC maintenance ensures that you avoid regular breakdowns and expensive air conditioner repairs.

Prevents Costly Air Conditioner Repairs

Air conditioners require maintenance to ensure they don’t start malfunctioning. Failure to do so every year can lead to a long list of problems. Here’s why annual AC maintenance is necessary for every homeowner and why you should never skip it in Middleburg, FL:

Cleans the Evaporator Coils

Every time you turn on your air conditioner, dust and dirt particles get sucked into the evaporator coils and accumulate over time. This buildup prevents proper airflow through the coils, which causes them to overheat. Professional AC maintenance involves cleaning these coils so that they function as they should without overheating the air conditioner.

The good news is that by scheduling annual AC maintenance checks with a professional service technician, you can ensure that you catch any problems before they become too bad to fix. And since the costs of AC repairs are usually higher than those associated with annual maintenance checks, this means saving money on them later down the road.

Extends the Lifespan of Your AC System

When you schedule an annual AC tuneup, our expert service technicians will perform an inspection of your entire system. First, they’ll check every component for leaks, corrosion, damage or anything else that might be affecting your air conditioner’s performance. Then they’ll make any necessary repairs or adjustments so that your AC system runs at peak efficiency.

If you’re using a central AC system, ensure that it’s getting the maintenance it needs for maximum efficiency. If you live in Middleburg, FL, and need AC repair or service work, call Cool Cool Connections, Inc. to schedule an appointment.

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AC Maintenance Reduces Energy Costs

How to Manage Your Home’s Humidity in Jacksonville, FL

Sun, 08 May 2022 14:39:00 GMT

The moisture levels in your house are likely to be high when the weather is warm or hot outside. Turning your air conditioner on in such a situation can control the indoor humidity. This system reduces the heat in the air, which in turn eliminates excess moisture. To ensure your AC system works effectively, have it maintained at least once per year.

Use Your Air Conditioner Wisely

Humidity plays a significant role in determining a home’s comfort and efficiency. For example, excess moisture in your home causes various health issues, affects your HVAC system’s efficiency and damages your house. Read on to know some effective techniques to manage the humidity levels in your Jacksonville, FL, home.

Improve Ventilation

Various ventilation systems, such as stove, dryer and bathroom exhaust vents, extract moisture from the house when cooking, cleaning or showering. Therefore, ensure that they function properly and have a connection to the house’s exterior.

Additionally, shut the doors and windows when the humidity outside is very high. Alternatively, you can turn on the mechanical ventilation from the HVAC system to ensure that air circulates freely in your house.

A dehumidifier stabilizes the humidity levels in a home by cooling the indoor air, condensing the water in the atmosphere and re-heating the dry air. You can purchase a portable system if the humidity problem is in specific spots in the home. The dehumidifiers that we offer can improve indoor air quality and solve the humidity issues in your house.

Install a Dehumidifier

A high-efficiency AC system can also stabilize the humidity levels in your home. It achieves this goal by eliminating the moisture in your house during warm days without over-cooling.

Solving humidity issues in your house prevents health problems and protects your home from structural issues. Our experts are ready to assist you to solve this problem and live comfortably in your house. Call Cool Connections, Inc. today for top-notch dehumidifier and AC installation services .

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Upgrade Your AC System

Why Does My Home in Orange Park, FL, Have Hot and Cold Spots?

Sun, 03 Apr 2022 14:39:00 GMT

At the most basic level, there’s the problem of obstructing the wall or floor air registers with things like furniture or rugs. The registers should stay clear of all obstructions or else the heat pump won’t deliver the cool air you want to all rooms.

Blocked Air Register

While heating your home in Orange Park, FL, last winter, you may have noticed that some rooms stayed cold. Now that it’s spring, you switched the heat pump to cooling mode and have found some rooms to stay warm. Read on to learn why your home might have hot and cold spots.

Dirty Air Filter

You should replace your air filter in the return vent every 90 days. You would need to do it sooner if the outdoor air quality plummets, you own pets or someone in your home smokes. Without a clean filter, the heat pump will struggle to circulate the air, which means uneven cooling.

It’s a good idea to schedule duct cleaning because years of dirt and dust build-up in the ducts can negatively affect heating and cooling, leaving warm and cold spots. Leaks in the vents can cause similar trouble; you’ll experience warm spots because the cool air is escaping through that leak before it reaches the room in question.

Issues With the Ductwork

Maybe your heat pump has an excessively large heating/cooling capacity, in which case it will first of all short-cycle. This erratic behavior naturally leads to uneven cooling. Ensure your heat pump is right size during the installation.

Contact Cool Connections, Inc. today so that we can perform the right repair to make the cooling more even in your home in Orange Park. We’ve been serving the region since 2009, and our NATE-certified service technicians can service any brand or model of heat pump.

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An Oversized Heat Pump

Clean the Air in Your Home with Our IAQ Solutions in Orange Park, FL

Fri, 18 Mar 2022 14:39:00 GMT

Firstly, electronic air cleaners install into your HVAC system . They have a transformer designed to apply power to the airflow, positively charging the air particles. The system collects the negatively charged media or plates — the contaminants.

Air Cleaners: Efficient and Reliable

Many pollutants find their way into the air you breathe inside your house. As a result, they increase the risk of stroke, cancer, asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Read on to learn how our IAQ solutions can help you enjoy cleaner air in your Orange Park, FL, home.

Remove Almost All Contaminants

Electronic air cleaners are efficient enough to trap up to 99% of airborne particles. Some high-end cleaners can trap the minutest of microscopic particles, including pollen, viruses, bacteria and tobacco smoke. Once you install an air cleaner, you’ll bid goodbye to indoor contaminants that trigger asthma, allergy and other health problems.

Most electronic air cleaners use high-efficiency, particulate-arresting, air-cleaning technology. They can trap even the smallest germ and dirt particles. The best systems won’t only keep your family safe from everyday contaminants. They can also protect them against disease-causing contaminants. As a result, they give you peace of mind.

Installed professionally, an electronic air cleaner can serve you for a long time with minimal maintenance. The washable electronic air cleaners, which are mostly flat panels fitted with aluminum frames, can last up to five years. If you purchase disposable electrostatic air filters, you’ll have to replace them at least once every three months.

Are you looking for IAQ solutions to boost the quality of your indoor air? If so, consider purchasing a high-end electronic air cleaner. For premium indoor air quality solutions matching your budget and needs, contact Cool Connections, Inc. today. We look forward to helping you breathe easier and sleep better.

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Easy to Clean and Maintain

Why Does My Heat Pump Turn On and Off Frequently?

Sun, 20 Feb 2022 15:39:00 GMT

Maybe you purchased your heat pump recently and the service technicians who installed it made a miscalculation as to what size unit you need. When it comes to heating, bigger doesn’t mean better. Heat pumps will heat a home too quickly if they’re designed for a larger space, leading to multiple short cycles.

Oversized Unit

To heat your home in Orange Park, FL, your heat pump only needs to cycle two or three times an hour. If it turns on and off more frequently, you have what’s called a short-cycling system. Short-cycling wears down a heat pump and raises the energy bills. Therefore, you’ll want to find out its cause and address it. Here are some possibilities:

Malfunctioning Thermostat

Bad wiring can lead the thermostat to turn your furnace on at unnecessary times. Other times, the thermostat’s location (near a vent or an electrical appliance) can cause it to misread the temperature. Know that a professional tuneup will include a thermostat calibration.

Heat pumps use refrigerant to absorb heat from outside and transfer it indoors. Refrigerant line can leak, though, interfering with the process just enough so that the heat pump keeps turning on and off, but without effectively heating the home. Look out for reduced airflow and for a hissing sound, among other warning signs.

Leaking Refrigerant

Overheating System

If you’ve neglected to change the air filter, then the resulting lack of airflow may be causing your heat pump to overheat. This will inevitably lead to shorter cycles.

100% Customer Satisfaction Guarantee

Many Orange Park, FL, residents turn to our family-owned company for heat pump services, and they always come away satisfied. Call Cool Connections, Inc. today, and we’ll send out a NATE-certified service technician to your home for a consultation. We’re happy to help you maximize comfort.

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How Attic Insulation Can Help You Meet Your Energy Conservation Goals

Sat, 22 Jan 2022 15:39:00 GMT

The three mechanisms of heat transfer are conduction, convection and radiation. Conduction involves the transfer of heat through a solid material. On hot summer days in Jacksonville, heat enters your home through the windows, walls and roof.

Radiation, on the other hand, involves the transfer of heat in the form of visible and non-visible light. Sunlight is the main source of radiation and external heat. Your home’s windows can cause infrared radiation from hot outdoor objects to radiate into your home. Different types of window treatments can help block this added heat.

Convection is another way for the heat from your ceiling and walls to affect you. Hot air rises naturally. As it does, it carries heat away from your walls and causes it to circulate in your home. The most common insulation materials work to slow convective and conductive heat flow.

No matter the mechanism, heat moves from warmer to cooler spaces. In winter, heat escapes your heated living spaces into unheated attics and garages. Heat can also escape indirectly through interior walls, floors, and ceilings, or wherever there’s a temperature difference. During the cooling season, outdoor heat tries to move inside. To maintain comfort in your home, you must replace the heat lost by using your heating system in winter and remove the heat gained by using your air conditioner.

Understanding Heat Transfer

Your HVAC system can lose as much as a quarter of the amount of heat it produces because of poor insulation. Insulating your attic is an easy and effective way to reduce heat transfer and improve HVAC efficiency. Read on to learn more about how attic insulation can help you meet your energy conservation goals in Jacksonville, FL.

Understanding R-Values

Properly insulating your attic will decrease heat flow, helping to reduce heat loss and heat gain. An R-Value measures an insulating material’s resistance to conductive heat flow. The higher the rating, the more effective the insulation. The Value depends on the type of insulation as well as its thickness and density.

The amount of insulation or R-value you’ll need depends on your climate, type of HVAC system, and the part of the home you’ll insulate. In Jacksonville, you should aim to insulate your attic with insulation rated between R30 and R60.

Need professional help insulating your attic and improving HVAC efficiency this year? Contact Cool Connections, Inc. to learn more about the benefits of insulation or to schedule an installation.

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Signs Your Heat Pump in Fleming Island, FL, is Leaking Refrigerant

Wed, 15 Dec 2021 18:34:00 GMT

Short -Cycling

Heat pumps follow a particular cycle to heat your home, so short-cycling could signify refrigerant leaks. A refrigerant leak causes your heat pump to strain, its components to overheat and the device to cycle for shorter periods. Call the experts if you notice your heat pump working under unusual cycle patterns to see if the refrigerant requires replacement or repairs.

The evaporator coil absorbs the heat, so it loses its capability and freezes up if your heat pump has a refrigerant leak. If you notice icing on your heat pump’s evaporator coil, the device might be low on refrigerant. It’s best to call your heating repair service technician to diagnose the problem and repair it.

Frozen Evaporator Coil

Heat pumps are a popular heating option in Fleming Island, FL. Refrigerants are an essential part of heat pumps, and a refrigerant leak can significantly reduce the system’s performance. Look out for these signs your heat pump has a refrigerant leak and address it fast to prevent significant repairs:

A gurgling sound from your heating system is a sign of refrigerant leaks. The leaking refrigerant generates the odd gurgling noise. It’s best to contact a service technician to fix the issue. Ignoring the odd noises could ultimately cause serious problems.

Strange Noises

System Inefficiency

Another telltale sign that your heating system has a refrigerant leak is reduced efficiency. Low refrigerant strains the components of your heat pump, especially the compressor, which reduces its efficiency. You might notice poor comfort, a failing device or an extremely high energy bill.

Talk to an HVAC service technician if your heat pump shows these signs to find the leaks and seal them. Avoid falling into the temptation of charging the refrigerant without consulting an expert. Contact Cool Connections, Inc. to work with licensed service technicians who offer affordable maintenance services that keep your heat pump operating at optimal performance.

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Have Your Heat Pump in Jacksonville, FL, Tuned Up Before Winter

Wed, 17 Nov 2021 15:37:00 GMT

Increase Heating System Efficiency

Dirt and debris that accumulate in the ducts and vents slow down the airflow. As such, the heat pump has to work harder to reach the temperature set on the thermostat, thus consuming more energy.

Most of the other tasks done during a fall tune-up ensure the system runs efficiently. These include:

Inspecting the ductwork for leaks.
Testing the insulation of your home and ducts.
Testing the thermostat and other system controls.
Checking the lubrication of parts.
Cleaning or changing the air filter.

During a fall tune-up, your HVAC professional inspects all the aspects of the outdoor and indoor components. This ensures that the heat pump is in good condition to operate efficiently through the winter. If there are components that need repair or replacement, the service technician will recommend the necessary steps.

With regular tune-ups, chances are you’ll never have to stay in the cold or request emergency services. HVAC service technicians are very busy during winter, dealing with system breakdowns, and you probably don’t want to wait for days or even weeks to get your home warmed back up.

Avoid Breakdowns During Winter

Is your heat pump ready for winter in Jacksonville, FL? As a rule of thumb, you need to schedule a professional tune-up every fall and spring. Below are some of the reasons a fall tune-up is necessary.

Finally, with better airflow, enhanced system efficiency and cleaner ducts, your indoor air quality will improve. You’ll have fewer issues with pollen, pet dander, dust and debris in your home, easing allergies and other potential complications. Plus, with a new filter, the likelihood of anything entering your home is much lower.

Our HVAC experts can help tune up your system and get it ready for the chillier months. Call Cool Connections, Inc. in Jacksonville, FL, and schedule fall maintenance or request other heating and air conditioning services.

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Enhance Indoor Air Quality

5 Benefits a New Thermostat Can Provide in Orange Park, FL

Sat, 16 Oct 2021 13:45:00 GMT

Decreased Energy Bills

A faulty thermostat will cause your HVAC system to run for longer periods than it should. This quickly raises your bills, sometimes dramatically so. A new model will help your HVAC system run more efficiently, saving you money each month.

A thermostat that isn’t functioning properly can cause wild temperature fluctuations from hour to hour and room to room. A new model will solve this hassle and create a more even climate inside your home. This will make you and your family more comfortable and improve sleep.

Increased Home Comfort

A wonky thermostat can cause some troubling HVAC issues in your Orange Park, FL, home. These can range from an uncomfortable home climate to an HVAC system that wears out prematurely. By switching to a newer model with modern technology, you can reap the following benefits:

A new thermostat will allow your HVAC system to work less to cool or heat the same area. This consumes less energy, lowers your overall carbon footprint and lessens the need for system repairs .

Environmentally Friendly

Older thermostats only allow manual temperature adjustments. New models allow you to use time-controlled settings and other unique features to automate and customize your experience. Many offer apps that allow you to change settings even while away from home.

Improved Features

Programmable thermostats are user-friendly and easy to navigate. They have digital touch screens that allow you to view all your data easily and the built-in LED lighting system allows you to easily change settings in the dark.

If you’re interested in having a new thermostat installed, we’re the place to call. Check out our heating services and more at Cool Connections Inc. by giving us a call. We look forward to hearing from you soon and helping you maximize comfort and cost savings!

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Easy to Use

Ductless HVAC Systems Provide These 4 Benefits in Jacksonville, FL

Fri, 17 Sep 2021 16:38:00 GMT

Enhanced Energy Efficiency

One feature about ductless mini-split systems is that they offer zone climate control. You can set one temperature in the bedroom and another in the living room. This allows you to run your heating system in a more energy-efficient manner because you don’t have to heat rooms that you don’t use frequently or you don’t want as warm as others.

Traditional centralized heating and air conditioning systems require placing ducting within the walls and floors of a home. Ductless mini-split systems skip this step. They simply require a wall-mounted unit that has a small pipe running out of the wall and down to the outdoor compressor unit.

Quick Installation

There’s no denying that winters in Jacksonville, FL, winters can feel chilly. Having a ductless HVAC system can be a great solution to ensure that your family stays warm during the cooler months. If you’re still on the fence about investing in a ductless HVAC system, read on to learn about the benefits they offer.

Ductless mini-split systems offer multi-phase filtration to boost the indoor air quality in your home. These systems filter the air coming in and going out so that they can remove the most amount of airborne pollutants possible. And, with their washable filters, upkeep is a breeze to keep your indoor air quality at a consistently high level.

Better Indoor Air Quality

If you’re l ike most homeowners, you’re familiar with the blowing sound of a centralized heating and air conditioning system. Ductless mini-split systems operate very quietly as they don’t need to force air throughout a large series of ductwork.

If you’re ready to invest in ductless HVAC for your home, it’s time to give Cool Connections, Inc. a call. Our service technicians will assist you in finding the right ductless system to meet your family’s needs and budget.

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Quiet Operation

4 Reasons to Purchase an Air Purifier in Orange Park, FL

Mon, 16 Aug 2021 15:32:00 GMT

Improves Indoor Air Quality

Indoor air quality can affect your health in many ways. You can develop respiratory issues, suffer from allergies more often or lose sleep. Installing an air purification system will help eliminate toxins in your home and improve the quality of the air you breathe.

One of the most common reasons for installing an air purifier is to get rid of unpleasant odors. A musty smell can be one of the most common odors in a home. Homes with poor insulation retain all the smells that come in from the outside.

The odor may also come from your lovely pet and linger around the house. You can get rid of unpleasant odors from cooking, smoking or cleaning. It’ll help you neutralize bad smells and create an ambiance that’s conducive to living.

Neutralizes Unpleasant Odors

According to the EPA, indoor air may be up five times more polluted than the air outside. With this in mind, you need an air purification system in your Orange Park, FL, home. Here are some of the benefits of installing an air purifier:

Another reason for installing air purifiers is to create a healthier living environment. Indoor air gets polluted with many harmful substances. These include volatile organic compounds, cigarette smoke, pollen and other allergens. Installing an air purifier is a great way to reduce these harmful substances in your home. As a result, you’ll help to protect your health.

Creates Healthier Living Environment

Installing an air purification system will extend the life of your HVAC filter. That’s because it’ll help to filter the tiniest of particle pollutants. It’ll also help your HVAC system operate efficiently, which reduces energy and repair costs.

An air purifier is a good investment that can help you maintain a healthier home for you and your family. For more information about air purifiers and our HVAC installation services, contact us at Cool Connections, Inc.

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Extends HVAC Filter Life

3 AC Noises That are a Cry for Help

Sat, 10 Jul 2021 17:21:00 GMT

Whistling Noises

Another way your air conditioning system will cry for help is by making whistling noises. Your AC system whistles when the refrigerant leaks or refrigerant gas enters the expansion valve. The noise may also result from leaking internal valves.

Each of these problems can lead your air conditioner to its untimely failure. Therefore, you should schedule prompt air AC repairs when you hear them. Professional preventative maintenance services and regular inspections could prevent your AC system from experiencing such problems.

Metal-on-metal grinding AC noises results from loose belts or faulty compressors. If the noises come from the compressor, it means it has worn out and requires replacing. It’s best to leave task to a trained professional. If the noise comes from the blower fan belts, it means they’re loose and you need them tightened.

Grinding Noises

Air conditioners use varied methods to communicate their ill-health problems. They can make noise, emit awful smells or even go mute. If you hear these AC noises in your your Jacksonville, FL, home, your system is crying for help:

When your AC system can no longer stand up to the extreme pressure from damaged components, it could also produce buzzing noises. Buzzing could result from multiple issues, including faulty circuit breakers, a damaged condenser fan motor or a faulty contactor relay switch. Buzzing AC noises indicate a problem with your air conditioner’s electrical system. These noises need instant attention, as leaving them longer could result more damage or even fires.

If your air conditioner makes these noises, you should call our team at Cool Connections, Inc. for quick AC inspections and repairs . We pride ourselves on quality service and promptness in meeting clients’ needs. Let our team handle your AC problem and restore your indoor comfort.

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Buzzing Noises

4 Steps to Hurricane-Proof Your HVAC System in Orange Park, FL

Sun, 13 Jun 2021 13:42:00 GMT

Raise and Secure Outdoor Unit

Even if you don’t live in a flood zone, it’s always a good idea to raise and secure your outdoor unit. Florida has a building code requiring new HVAC systems in flood zones raised to minimize damage during high water events. You can also raise your existing HVAC system to protect it.

Since it’s common to experience power outages with hurricanes, it helps to cool your home beforehand. Close the blinds, curtains and turn down your air conditioner thermostat to a temperature lower than your normal. Once you cool your home, the temperatures should remain comfortable during the storm.

Cool Your Home Beforehand

Hurricane season lasts from the first day of June to the last day of November. Since the peak of the season occurs during the hottest part of the year, you’ll also be using your HVAC system to keep you cool. Therefore, you need to know how to keep it safe. Below are four steps to hurricane-proof your HVAC system in Orange Park, FL.

Another thing to do before the storm hits is to check your yard and surrounding area for loose objects. This includes tree debris, toys, lawn furniture, outdoor appliances and anything else that’ll become a potential problem. Then, find a secure place to store these items, such as a garage, shed or with family, friends or neighbors.

Remove Loose Objects

Turn Off Power and Cover Unit

Before the storm hits, turn off the breakers to your HVAC unit or turn off the gas supply if you rely on gas. Not only do wind gusts cause debris to strike your unit, but lightning causes electrical surges that damage your system. Once you cut power to your system, cover your unit with a tarp or a wind shield to keep debris out.

With hurricane season just starting, now’s the time to prepare. Contact Cool Connections, Inc. today to let us take care of your HVAC maintenance needs.

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4 Benefits of Ductless Mini-Splits in St. Augustine, FL

Sun, 09 May 2021 17:38:00 GMT

Energy Efficiency

Ductless mini-splits don’t use air ducts to distribute air throughout your home. This means that they do not suffer the energy inconsistencies associated with ductwork. You will be able to save money on utility bills and lower your carbon footprint.

With ductless mini-split systems, you can divide your home into different cooling zones. As such, you can deliver air separately into each zone. Each system comes with up to four indoor air handling units that you can mount in separate rooms in your house. You can install them in new room additions, small apartments and new constructions with ease.

Flexible Zoning

Ductless mini-splits are highly efficient and have various applications in your home. They consist of two main components, including the indoor air handler and the outdoor compressor. Here are four benefits of ductless mini-split systems in St. Augustine, FL:

You can enjoy quiet and smooth operation by installing ductless systems in your home. They have advanced noise-canceling technology that reduces noise produced during operation. They also have fans that run at lower speeds, and they deliver maximum cooling capability in your home. Less noise means you improve your home comfort.

Noise Control

Compact Size

Finally, ductless systems are small in size, meaning that you can install them easily in your home. They don’t occupy a lot of space in your home since you can mount them on the wall or ceiling. The compressor unit sits outside away from view, thus increasing the aesthetic value of your home. Most ductless installations require less than a full day to complete.

Cool Connections, Inc. provides quality air conditioning and heating services. We offer flat-rate pricing, provide 24/7 emergency service and guarantee 100% satisfaction. Contact us today for all your HVAC maintenance and installation services. We look forward to hearing from you.

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Why to Steer Clear of Dangerous DIY HVAC Repairs

Tue, 13 Apr 2021 17:32:00 GMT

Electrical Safety

HVAC repair and electrical work are among the most dangerous jobs. You may think that you turned all your electrical and electronic devices off before starting a repair. But it can take just one spark to cause an electrical fire or personal injury.

Some people prefer trying DIY HVAC repairs to avoid the extra cost of having professional help. But doing your own repairs can void the warranty of your HVAC system. As a result, it can cost you more in the long run.

Compromised Warranty

You may love a good DIY project, whether it’s building a backyard greenhouse or kitchen pantry shelves. However, there are a few DIY projects you should avoid due to a lack of skills and training. Below are five reasons you should steer clear of DIY HVAC repairs in Fleming Island, FL.

HVAC professionals have years of training, starting as apprentices before they’re certified to work with HVAC equipment. Our service technicians are NATE-certified, which is no easy task. NATE certification is a rigorous process involving lots of course work and exams.

Lack of Training

Proper Tools for the Job

Even if you did try to repair whatever HVAC issues you had, there are some parts of the job that require special tools, some of which are very expensive. When choosing between buying these expensive tools and calling an HVAC service technician, it’s better to go with the latter choice.

You might not think that it’s a big deal to replace your HVAC system’s refrigerant when it runs low. But adding refrigerant is another thing that’s best left to the experts. The EPA requires special certification for service technicians handling HVAC refrigerants. That’s because these substances can pose safety and health risks due to the halocarbons they contain.

When it comes to HVAC repairs, they’re best left to the professionals. Contact us at Cool Connections, Inc. today for your AC repair and maintenance service to avoid the extra problems that come with DIY HVAC repairs.

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Replacing Refrigerant

Why It’s Important to Clean Your Dryer Vent Regularly

Fri, 26 Mar 2021 17:21:00 GMT

A New Dryer is Expensive

Lack of regular maintenance of any machine causes it to work harder than intended. A blocked dryer vent may get damaged due to its working hard than initially designed. Therefore, frequent cleaning of your dryer vent is essential for better functioning over a long time, and it helps prevent you having to get a costly replacement.

Uncomfortable breathing in your house stems from having too many particle pollutants in your indoor air supply. Some of these particle pollutants collect in your dryer vent. They can accumulate and worsen your indoor air quality.

To Breathe Comfortably

You don’t want to pay high electric bills, breathe uncomfortably or face a fire outbreak in your Orange Park, FL, home. To avoid all these problems, you must clean your dryer vent. Below are four reasons to clean your dryer vent regularly.

Your blocked dryer vent doesn’t only threaten your home with hazardous gasses but also the risk of fire outbreak. The lint in your dryer vent combined with the heat can cause a fire in your house if you don’t get your dryer vent professionally cleaned .

Keep Your House Free From Fire Outbreak

Get Rid of Carbon Monoxide

An accumulation of lint in your dryer vent stops it from better disposing of dangerous gases such as carbon monoxide. If it starts to flow in your house, it’s tough to recognize carbon monoxide as it’s colorless and tasteless. It can put you and your family at risk of its poisoning. Regular cleaning of your dryer vent is essential to keep you and your family safe from carbon monoxide poisoning.

While it looks like a small issue, regular cleaning of your dryer vent is vital. If you’re interested in professional cleaning of your dryer vent in Orange Park, FL, contact Cool Connections, Inc. today for immediate assistance.

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The Importance of Having a Clean Furnace Filter in Jacksonville, FL

Wed, 03 Feb 2021 17:18:00 GMT

Maintain Good Airflow for the Furnace

A clogged air filter restricts airflow to your furnace. Restricted airflow can cause your furnace to overheat and sustain faster wear and tear. You need to stay on top of changing your furnace filter monthly to keep the furnace in good condition and extend its lifespan by not straining it to warm your home.

Allergens, dust and other pollutants circulate through your home as the furnace runs. Over time, contaminants build up on the filter and in the ducts, which can worsen your indoor air quality. You need to hire duct cleaning professionals to clean your ducts every three years in Jacksonville, FL.

The furnace filter helps trap contaminants before they have a chance to circulate through your home’s air. If it becomes too dirty, it loses its effectiveness. Change the air filter once a month to ensure it’s doing its job.

Remove More Contaminants from the Air

According to the EPA, Americans in and around Jacksonville, FL, spend approximately 90% of their time indoors. Did you know indoor air quality is oftentimes worse than outdoor air quality. Having a clean furnace filter is important to remove contaminants, maintain good airflow and prevent high energy bills.

Another problem that results from restricted airflow is high energy bills. High-quality air filters don’t get dirty as fast as lower quality filters, so they’re more supportive of preventing high energy bills.

Despite your best intentions, you may forget to change the air filter when you’re supposed to. Using high-quality filters can help prevent a sudden increase in your energy bill.

Maintaining a clean furnace filter is one of the best things you can do for energy efficiency. You should also schedule heating maintenance at least once a year. Contact Cool Connections, Inc. for affordable HVAC maintenance services.

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Prevent High Energy Bills

5 Reasons Furnace Maintenance Matters in Your St. Johns, FL, Home

Sun, 10 Jan 2021 17:10:00 GMT

Fewer Repairs

You don’t need your furnace to fail for you to call a service technician. Seasonal maintenance is an opportunity to thoroughly inspect the furnace and discover unseen problems resulting in breakdowns. The assessment, lubrication and cleaning keep your furnace performing optimally.

With seasonal maintenance, you’ll experience fewer repair needs during operation. You’ll have few worries about your furnace breaking down when you need it the most.

During seasonal maintenance, service technicians make minor adjustments, inspections and tests that keep your furnace running effectively for a longer period. Through testing the starting capabilities, lubricating moving parts and cleaning the condensate drain of a furnace, a professional will help you reduce deterioration. This seasonal maintenance reduces the wear and tear of your furnace parts, extending their service life.

Extended Equipment Lifespan

A properly working furnace is essential for a cozy and comfortable home. You may wonder whether maintaining your furnace is necessary if it’s not broken. The following are reasons furnace maintenance matters to keep your St. Johns, FL, home heated.

When using gas- or oil-fueled furnaces, a little crack in the system may lead to leakages of gas and carbon monoxide into your home. Such leaks lead to many health complications and even fatalities. During furnace maintenance, a service technician reviews all the safety features and any possible problems.

Improved Safety

Seasonal maintenance ensures that your furnace runs efficiently throughout the cold season. Maintenance keeps every part of the furnace performing optimally to reduce strain and lower your utility bills. During maintenance, a service technician tightens electrical connections, measures airflow and inspects the gas pressure.

Additionally, service technicians can inspect and adjust the blower components as well as inspect the condenser and evaporator coil. When everything works correctly at full capacity, you’re not only more comfortable but also get to lower your energy bill.

Lower Energy Bills

The last thing you want is to wake up at midnight in the cold due to a broken furnace. You need to maintain your furnace to prevent such a breakdown from happening, especially if you have children at home. If you regularly maintain the furnace, you’ll benefit from improved comfort for you and your family.

Call the HVAC experts at Cool Connections, Inc. for help with everything you need from heating installation services to air duct cleaning. Our team will help keep your home warm and safe.

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Improved Comfort

Consider This Before You Turn on Your Furnace in St. Johns, FL

Wed, 02 Dec 2020 17:29:00 GMT

Replace Your Thermostat Batteries

Your thermostat needs to work optimally for your furnace to operate well. You should change your batteries twice a year to ensure there are no problems. The best time to remember to do this is when switching from heating to cooling and back again.

The first thing you should do is check your air filter. To keep your system running optimally, you need to change your filters every 30 days for regular fiberglass filters and every 60 to 90 days for extended-life filters.

Changing your filter before you start running your furnace assures plenty of airflow for the system to work optimally. Clogged filters are a common cause for reduced heating efficiency and additional strain on the entire system.

Change Your Air Filter

If you’re like most people, you turn your furnace on when the weather starts cooling off in St. Johns, FL, without much thought. However, there are some things you should do before turning it on for the season. That way, you’ll make sure that it operates effectively and efficiently when you need it most.

Your system needs regular maintenance to continue operating optimally. A service technician cleans and inspects your system during these furnace maintenance visits.

They also ensure your motor mounts are tight and there are no signs of electrical overheating. This includes checking wiring, the electrical components, and mounting screws and bolts.

Call for Professional Maintenance

Before lighting your furnace for the first time each season, you should check to ensure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly. You should actually check these about once a month, but certainly before the start of the season. Some wear or damage to your furnace increases the risk of carbon monoxide leaking into your home, causing health concerns.

Check Your Detectors

Should your maintenance visit uncover some components needing repair, be sure to schedule them early in the season. Doing so avoids costly emergency visits, putting extra strain on your system. Scheduling a repair also means you won’t have to wait during the busy cold months to get your system repaired.

Doing these simple tasks before turning your furnace on for the first time this season will help ensure it works efficiently all winter long. Call Cool Connections, Inc. to schedule your furnace repair today.

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Schedule Repairs

Space Heaters vs. Ductless HVAC Systems in Fernandina Beach, FL

Tue, 17 Nov 2020 17:22:00 GMT

Space Heaters Cost More to Operate

Ductless HVAC systems are highly efficient choices in Fernandina Beach, FL. Unlike ducted systems, there’s no energy loss since the heated air doesn’t have to travel through ductwork.

Space heaters provide supplemental heat in one room. If you have more than one room of the home to keep warm, trying to rely on space heaters is expensive. Their costs add up.

Space heaters are at risk of falling over, which can cause a fire. You might trip over it, or one of your pets could knock it over. Burns are another possibility because of how hot the heater gets.

You have to maintain at least 3 feet of clearance around the space heater because certain objects can catch on fire. With a ductless HVAC system, you don’t need to worry about fires.

The indoor air quality inside your home is better with a ductless system compared with a space heater. Indoor air quality matters because pollutants in the air can increase the risk of respiratory illnesses and other health problems.

Ductless Systems Are Safer

Space heaters cause many house fires in Fernandina Beach, FL, and around the country. When you’re choosing between a space heater and a ductless HVAC system, consider differences in safety, efficiency and effectiveness.

You’re probably going to have to run the space heater all day if it’s your only source of heat. Space heaters weren’t designed to serve as a sole source of heating, so they limit your comfort. You’ll feel more comfortable inside the house relying on a ductless HVAC system for heat.

Although a ductless HVAC system has a higher initial cost, it has lower operational costs than a space heater. It keeps you more comfortable and safer as well. Contact Cool Connections, Inc. to discuss a ductless installation in Fernandina Beach, FL.

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Ductless Systems Enhance Comfort

Why Your AC Unit Leaks Water in Your Home in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL

Sun, 04 Oct 2020 16:29:00 GMT

Understanding Drain Line Leaks

During every cooling cycle, an air conditioning system makes spaces colder by removing water vapor from the environment. If an AC system is operating properly, the evaporator coil will successfully manage the vapor from the air. However, if a drain has a clog, the vapor will have nowhere to go, so water will start to leak inside a house.

Some leaks occur if an air conditioner was set up poorly with many loose connections. You may not discover a leak caused by a weak connection until after strong vibrations from the air conditioner knock the drain line out of place.

When you discover water on the floor near your air conditioner, trace the trail back to the unit. In most cases, a water trail will lead you to a:

Clogged drain line.
Disconnected drain line.
Clogged drain pan.
Defective pump.
Frozen evaporator coil.

Most Common Reasons for AC Leaks

A leak caused by an air conditioning system can result in water damage. If you’re trying to stop a leak in your Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, home, first turn your air conditioner off. You can pinpoint the source of a leak in your AC unit using the strategies in this guide.

Your air conditioner has a pump that pushes water into a drain pan. Over time, the surfaces on the drain pan will begin to rust. If the rusting is severe, cracks and holes will develop inside the pan and water will seep through the openings.

If you need help for an air conditioner that won’t stop leaking, contact Cool Connections, Inc., to schedule an appointment for AC repairs . Our NATE-certified service technicians are available 24/7.

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Drain Pan Rust Damage

Do Kids or Pets Suffer From Poor Indoor Air in Fleming Island, FL?

Sat, 12 Sep 2020 14:39:00 GMT

Neurological Impacts

Air pollutants can have serious neurological effects on both humans and pets. Pets’ brains are susceptible to inflammation and amyloid plaques from toxic air contaminants. Studies show that childhood exposure to poor indoor air quality can cause behavioral issues, worsened performance in school and reduced cognitive function.

Studies show that pets exposed to cigarette smoke often have reduced lung function and breathing complications. Children are also sensitive to tobacco smoke and may experience respiratory distress, such as asthma, coughing and wheezing, after inhaling indoor cigarette smoke. Using an air purifier can help reduce the concentration of these particles, circulate clean air and minimize further respiratory irritation. As a result, you can maintain healthy IAQ.

Respiratory Irritation

Researchers have linked poor indoor air quality to several adverse human health effects in both children and pets. Indoor air particles, such as dust, cigarette smoke and volatile organic compounds, could make your kid and pets suffer. These air pollutants in your Fleming Island, FL, home can cause respiratory distress, neurological issues and cancer:

Studies show that bad indoor air quality can cause certain cancers in pets, such as lymphoma and mesothelioma. Similarly, children are at risk for respiratory and cardiovascular cancers from inhaling air pollutants. A whole-house air filtration system can draw out stale air from your home and bring in fresh, clean air. As a result, it can cut the amount of harmful, carcinogenic particles in the air inside your house.

Your kids and pets can suffer from respiratory symptoms, neurological issues and cancer from breathing in toxic air pollutants that accumulate inside your home. If your indoor air concerns you, reach out to the trained team at Cool Connections, Inc. to learn more about how you can improve the indoor air quality in your Fleming Island, FL, house.

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Cancer

Regular HVAC Maintenance Can Help Keep You Cool in Jacksonville, FL

Fri, 14 Aug 2020 14:55:00 GMT

Keep AC Coils Clean

An important HVAC system maintenance task is keeping the evaporator and condenser coils free from dirt and debris. These coils must remain clean to absorb heat correctly. Your HVAC system will use less energy and keep your home cool more effectively after your HVAC professional inspects and cleans the coils.

Changing the air filter every 30–90 days is the most basic way to maintain your HVAC system. The air filter is responsible for collecting dust, dirt, dander and other debris before these pollutants can negatively impact your indoor air quality .

Clogged air filters make your HVAC system work harder than it should and prevent it from cooling the home properly. An overworked HVAC system results in higher power bills. Keep your home cooled more effectively and lower the electric bill by maintaining a clean air filter.

Change the Air Filter

Are you concerned about whether your air conditioner is functioning as it should? Air conditioning is essential for most of the year in Jacksonville, FL. Learn why it’s important to schedule regular HVAC maintenance and how doing so lowers overall energy costs.

Your AC unit needs the proper amount of refrigerant to keep your home as cool as possible. You’ll notice higher energy costs when the compressor overcompensates for low refrigerant levels.

Check Refrigerant Levels

You’ll compromise your HVAC system’s performance if its electrical connections aren’t maintained. An HVAC professional looks for damaged or frayed wires during a tuneup.

Minimize the risk of component failure or larger AC repairs by getting all electrical connection problems repaired. Your HVAC system will function more efficiently when the electrical parts are working properly. The results are lower energy costs and a cooler home.

Inspect Electrical Connections

Lubricate Moving Parts

Lubricating all moving parts helps your HVAC system work more efficiently. HVAC maintenance includes the removal of all debris from parts such as circulation units and the compressor. These parts are then lubricated to reduce friction.

Are you ready to have your HVAC system maintained so it can perform well the rest of this summer and beyond? Contact Cool Connections, Inc. so we can schedule your HVAC maintenance appointment .

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4 Health Benefits of Having a Dehumidifier in Jacksonville, FL

Sun, 12 Jul 2020 13:43:00 GMT

Prevent Asthma Attacks

Asthma attacks can be triggered by dust mites, cleaning products and residue from house remodeling. Dehumidifiers are beneficial in preventing asthma attacks since they eliminate these triggers.

Effective elimination of these triggers is more efficient when you use air purifiers and a ventilation system.

Humidity levels of more than 50% are ideal for allergens to thrive. Allergens such as dust mites cannot survive in a dry environment. A dehumidifier maintains the humidity of your home at 40%, which keeps allergens from growing and spreading.

The crawl space in your house can have higher humidity than the rest of your home. You might find dust mites in this spot. A dehumidifier will purify this area and keep it clean from allergens.

Stop Allergens From Thriving

Summer in Jacksonville, FL, is hot and humid. An increase in humidity poses daily threats to your health and brings you discomfort. A dehumidifier can eliminate these threats through the following methods.

There are times when you feel a gush of cold air even when windows are closed and the AC unit isn’t on. The leading cause of this feeling is damp air in your home.

Everything reacts to high humidity levels. A dehumidifier removes the dampness from the air and keeps your home dry, keeping all objects safe from rust.

Remove Dampness in Your Home

Finally, inhaling odors from microbial growth can result in lung and intestine infections. With a dehumidifier, you’ll reduce the rotting and musty smells in your house. The dehumidifier will remove moisture that encourages the growth of microbial, preventing odors.

If you want to maintain a comfortable indoor environment , call us at Cool Connections, Inc. We are experts at installing dehumidifiers and helping you achieve a more comfortable home.

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Reduce Odors

How Much Attic Insulation Should a Jacksonville, FL, Home Have?

Mon, 15 Jun 2020 13:44:00 GMT

What Are R-Values?

The type of attic insulation you have in your home depends on where you live. The amount also depends on your location, and determining that comes from R-Values. R-Values are values of the thermal resistance an insulating material has, as provided by the Department of Energy.

The warm air in your home is either trapped in or released from the attic, since warm air naturally rises to the top. Moisture from the home gets trapped in it as well. Ventilation and sealing combined with proper insulation give you the most airflow and temperature control with less usage of heating or air conditioning.

However, the amount of insulation has to be just right for your home. If you put too little, you won’t be able to retain heat. Conversely, put too much and you’ll have an oven. You’ll also experience damage to the roof and high electric bills.

How Attic Insulation Works

Attic insulation is important for your home both for retaining heat in the winter and cool air in the summer. You need a specific amount due to the unique climate you experience in Jacksonville, FL. Here’s information about how much attic insulation your home should have so you’ll feel comfortable in any season of the year:

Jacksonville, FL, residents experience a climate of hot summers, cool winters and many wet days year-round, and temperatures typically vary from 46 to 90 degrees. Therefore, you need to have R-Values of R30 to R60 for an uninsulated attic, and R25 to R38 for adding 3-4 inches of existing insulation. These R-Values keep homes warm in winter, cool in summer and moisture-free throughout the year.

If you need to add or replace insulation in your attic, the professionals at Cool Connections, Inc. can get you perfectly comfortable with fast, reliable service. We’re experts in the climate of Jacksonville, FL, and the surrounding areas. And we know what homeowners need.

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What’s Ideal for Homes in My Region?

How Air Duct Cleaning Benefits Your HVAC System, Home and Health

Tue, 12 May 2020 14:11:00 GMT

Better Indoor Air Quality

Most people spend a majority of their time at home, and breathing in dirty air puts your health at risk. Dust, pollen and pet dander blowing into your rooms could aggravate allergies, asthma and other breathing problems. Air duct cleaning improves your home’s air quality, making it easier for you and your family to breathe.

Over time, dust and dirt can build up in air ducts. Some of the dust may come in through a gap or failed seal, and some gets around the HVAC filter. When the buildup gets too thick, the ducts become obstructed. Your HVAC system has to work harder to maintain the indoor temperature. Cleaning the dust and dirt from the air ducts reduces wear and tear on your heating and cooling system and could extend its lifespan.

Extend HVAC Lifespan

Air ducts are often overlooked when it comes to HVAC maintenance in Jacksonville, FL. However, they play a big role in your home’s comfort, energy efficiency and indoor air quality. Dirty or obstructed air ducts could make your home dusty, and your health could suffer. Consider these ways air duct cleaning benefits your HVAC system, home and health.

Air duct cleaning could lower your monthly energy costs by 20 to 30 percent. When your air ducts are cleaned, the service technicians also inspect them, looking for small gaps or cracks. Removing the dust and dirt buildup and sealing the ducts allows your HVAC system to work as efficiently as possible.

Your home’s air ducts play a vital role in the health of your family and your HVAC system. Clean and properly sealed air ducts enhance your home’s energy efficiency and extend your HVAC system’s lifespan. Regular duct cleaning every two to three years ensures that the cooled and dehumidified air from your air conditioning system reaches your living spaces. To learn more about the benefits of air duct cleaning, call Cool Connections, Inc. today.

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Save Money on Heating and Cooling

Single- Versus Multi-Zone Ductless HVAC

Thu, 16 Apr 2020 16:21:00 GMT

Single-Zone Ductless HVAC Applications

Single-zone ductless systems are one-on-one applications. That means these systems cool a single room via one indoor unit and an outdoor compressor. Choose a single-zone unit if your home has the following factors:

Room additions.
Converting an area of your home into a new function.
Remodeling a home.
Upgrading or replacing part of your old HVAC system.

Zoned heating and cooling involves separating indoor temperatures in two or more areas. As a result, it allows you to maximize comfort and energy savings. Each zone has a targeted space programmed by a remote control that allows greater cooling when needed. Zoned systems are ideal for homes with varying temperature needs.

What’s Zoned Heating and Cooling?

Ductless air conditioners are similar to zoned central AC systems, but they’re more efficient. Determining whether your Jacksonville, FL, home is better suited to a single- or multi-zone ductless HVAC system depends on several factors. Read on to learn more about ductless HVAC systems and which type will fit your house best.

Multi-zone mini-split systems can cool several areas in your home with multiple indoor units attached to a single outdoor compressor. As a result, you can program the temperature in each area independently. Choose a multi-zone system if your home has these characteristics:

You have two or more floors.
Ducted system cannot accommodate several rooms.
Home is older and installing new ductwork isn’t an option.
Central air conditioner is causing inconsistencies in several areas.

Multi-Zone Ductless HVAC Applications

Cool Connections, Inc. can provide your home with a quality ductless HVAC system. To learn more about installation and other our HVAC services we provide, contact us today for an appointment. We will be happy to meet your needs and make sure you’re maximizing comfort and energy savings.

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Sign Up for Our HVAC Maintenance Plan to Enjoy These Benefits

Thu, 19 Mar 2020 16:21:00 GMT

Increase Energy Efficiency

Well-maintained HVAC systems operate more efficiently. Maintenance visits include air filter replacement, lubrication of the motor, and cleaning of the coils and fins. All of these tasks allow the system to operate at its peak efficiency. You could save 20 percent or more on your monthly utility bills with our maintenance plan.

First off, our HVAC maintenance plan gives you priority service. If your HVAC system malfunctions, you’re at the top of the schedule for repairs. Participants have access to 24/7 emergency repair services. Therefore, you won’t worry about waiting too long for a repair.

Enjoy Priority Service

Your heating and cooling system consists of many different components. All of these parts have to be in proper condition in order for the system to effectively heat or cool your Jacksonville, Florida, home. To keep your system functioning as designed, it’s important to schedule regular HVAC maintenance. An HVAC maintenance plan offers many benefits to your comfort and wallet.

Regular HVAC maintenance prevents a lot of problems. Issues such as obstructed condensate drains, low refrigerant levels or loose connections could cause a system malfunction. During a system tuneup, your service technician checks every part and component of the HVAC system. They can fix any issues before they cause a disruption of cooling or heating functions.

Experience Fewer Service Disruptions

Uphold Your Warranty

Finally, most manufacturer’s warranties on air conditioning systems and heat pumps require that you schedule preventive maintenance. The warranties also indicate that a licensed HVAC service technician must perform the service. In the event that the equipment has a fault, the manufacturer may require a listing of the maintenance visits for the system.

With an HVAC maintenance plan, you won’t forget to schedule a tuneup for your air conditioning system or heat pump. We call you, and you pick a time that’s convenient. Our affordable maintenance plans make it easy to keep your heating and cooling system working as efficiently as possible. At Cool Connections, Inc., we look forward to providing you with on-time, thorough and professional HVAC maintenance. Contact us today.

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3 Reasons to Get Your Ducts Cleaned

Thu, 20 Feb 2020 16:11:00 GMT

Improved Efficiency

Another benefit of regular duct cleaning service is improved HVAC efficiency. When the ducts clog with debris, the system has to work harder to move heated and cooled air throughout the space. As a result, you’ll often see an increase in your monthly energy bills. With a duct cleaning service, you can enjoy improved airflow and a comfortable indoor atmosphere without having to worry about added costs.

The main reason to have your ducts cleaned regularly is to improve the quality of the air you breathe. Over time, the ducts tend to get overloaded with dirt, dust, pollen, dander,and other debris, which your HVAC system recirculates in your air supply every time it operates.

Poor indoor air quality causes a number of health concerns, including throat irritation, skin rashes, congestion and coughing. Prolonged exposure can lead to more serious health problems. When you have your ducts professionally cleaned, a professional will remove the debris that has settled in the ductwork. As a result, they’ll improve the air quality and help your family breathe easier.

Healthier Indoor Air

Poor indoor air quality is a problem that can impact your Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, home. It’s a growing issue that affects millions, largely because people spend most of their time indoors. One way to protect yourself and your family from the effects of poor indoor air quality is to have your ducts cleaned regularly.

Dirty ducts can also cause the air in your home to smell unpleasant. Musty odors often indicate the presence of moisture in the ductwork, while smoke that has settled in the ducts can make the space smell stale. Other odors that may continue to circulate throughout a home include paint fumes, household cleaning products and smells associated with pets. A duct cleaning service can freshen up the air in your space and eliminate unpleasant odors.

Schedule a duct cleaning service by calling Cool Connections, Inc. We’ll help to improve your indoor air quality so that you can enjoy these appealing benefits.

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Fresher-Smelling Home

Dealing With Winter Static Electricity

Thu, 23 Jan 2020 12:32:00 GMT

Avoiding Electric Shocks

There are some easy steps you can take to avoid shocks from static electricity. These include using a humidifier, avoiding synthetic carpeting or clothing, and maintaining your HVAC system.

Static electricity causes a bit of a jolt, and it’s uncomfortable. But you’re not likely to get seriously hurt from it. It’s caused by excessively dry air in the wintertime that causes free electrons to stick to you more easily. Then, when you touch a conductive surface, they’re released and you get a shock. These shocks can be damaging to some electronics, like cell phones, but even that’s highly unlikely.

What Causes Static Electricity?

Have you ever noticed that static electricity seems to be worse in the winter? The next time you touch a doorknob in your Orange Park, Florida, home and get a jolt, you won’t have to wonder why. Learn about the dangers of static electricity and some things you can do to avoid minor shocks this winter.

Controlling the humidity in your home is the most effective way to keep those free electrons from sticking to you. Use a humidifier to maintain the humidity of your indoor air at about 40% and you should feel fewer small jolts.

Use a Humidifier

Synthetic fabrics and carpeting are like magnets to those electrons. You can combat static electricity by wearing natural fabrics and avoiding synthetic carpeting. Rubber-soled shoes and bare feet can also help you avoid carrying electrons.

Avoid Synthetics

Maintain Your HVAC System

One of the most important things you can do to reduce free electrons in the air is to maintain your HVAC system . Your furnace and AC system do a lot more than just heat and cool your home; they clean your air as well. By keeping your HVAC system clean and functioning at peak efficiency, your air will be cleaner and you’ll be less likely to get shocked.

To schedule a maintenance appointment for your HVAC system, call Cool Connections, Inc. at (904) 908-5252 today. We’ll help your HVAC system operate at peak efficiency and reduce static electricity in your home.

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3 Signs It’s Time to Clean Your Dryer Vent

Thu, 12 Dec 2019 12:39:00 GMT

The Outside of Your Dryer Gets Hot

When the dryer vent clogs, it’ll malfunction and won’t exhaust as it should, resulting in an abnormally hot exterior or interior. You may also notice that the humidity level in the room is higher than in other rooms, fogging mirrors and windows. Continuing to run your dryer when this occurs can cause the heating element to wear out quicker.

A clogged vent can mean it takes almost twice as long or longer to dry an average load of laundry. Your dryer works by pushing the moisture out of your clothing and venting the moist air out through the vent. When the dryer doesn’t vent the air properly, your clothes won’t dry quickly. As a result, it’ll cause more wear and tear on the machine.

It Takes Forever for Your Clothes to Dry

One of the hardest working appliances in your Jacksonville, Florida, home is the dryer, especially if you have a large household. While the dryer may get a lot of use, it rarely gets much attention otherwise. Because of this, one of the common things many homeowners overlook is having their dryer vents cleaned. If you’re experiencing any of the following issues, it may be time to schedule a professional dryer vent cleaning:

Burning odors coming from your dryer can mean danger. A clogged vent contains a buildup of lint, which is extremely flammable. While most homeowners know this will fill the lint trap, they may not know it can also fill the exhaust tube. When the vent is blocked, the dryer can overheat and emit a burning smell. This is a major fire hazard. So if you detect a burning smell, disconnect your machine immediately and call for service.

If you notice any of the problems above, contact Cool Connections, Inc. at (904) 908-5252 . One of our experienced professionals will get your dryer vent cleaning scheduled.

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You Detect a Burning Smell

4 Risks Associated with DIY HVAC Projects

Fri, 22 Nov 2019 14:18:00 GMT

It’s More Expensive

An HVAC repair requires specialist knowledge and specialized tools. To fix HVAC problems , you need to buy the full toolkit to troubleshoot, diagnose and repair the faults in the system. There’s also a high risk of damaging the unit. If that happens, you may need to replace more parts or lose the appliance completely. It’s more affordable and safer to use professional help.

HVAC systems are powerful appliances that require enormous amounts of electrical voltage. Dismantling them can deliver life-threatening electrical shocks that will cost you far more than you could have saved. You may also short circuit your home’s electrical connection, increasing the risk of fires and expensive damages. Unless you have the requisite training and specialized equipment to handle HVAC repairs, it’s always a bad idea to attempt fixing the system yourself.

Safety Issues

Are you thinking of a DIY HVAC system repair in your Jacksonville, Florida, home? Performing repairs on your HVAC unit is risky and can cause extensive damage. Here are four risks of conducting DIY HVAC projects:

You might break the law if you try to DIY HVAC repairs. The Environmental Protection Agency has strict laws regarding the handling of systems that contain refrigerants. Refrigerants can pose health and environmental risks, and only qualified professionals should work with them. Call an HVAC expert if your heating and cooling unit is inefficient.

It May Be Illegal

Voided Warranty

Finally, DIY HVAC repairs can void your warranty. Manufacturers have conditions for warranty eligibility such as hiring a professional for HVAC maintenance and repairs. You may lose the free equipment repair and replacement if the company finds out you tampered with the unit. The chances of losing money is higher if you try to hack your heating and cooling unit’s repairs.

At Cool Connections, Inc., we offer expert heating repair and maintenance services to help you get the maximum value from your HVAC systems. Call us today at (904) 908-5252 to enjoy the best HVAC performance.

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4 Signs that You Need Air Duct Cleaning

Fri, 04 Oct 2019 16:33:00 GMT

Dust Around the Clock

Every home is susceptible to an infiltration of dust particles. Dust can get into your home any time that your front, back, patio or sliding doors are open. It also happens when you leave windows open to let in a fresh breeze.

Dirt, dust, and debris that get pulled into your HVAC system and settle in the ductwork can result in continuous dust, as well. Every time the system turns on, dust blows out through the vents. As a result, it leaves you with extra cleaning and reduced air quality.

If you’ve noticed an increase in your monthly heating or cooling costs but you haven’t increased your HVAC use, the system’s ductwork might need a thorough cleaning . As dirt and dust settle in these ducts, the resulting buildup can affect airflow.

Increased Energy Costs

If the HVAC system in your Jacksonville, Florida, home isn’t cooling optimally, a component isn’t working properly. Before assuming the worst, consider having a professional HVAC company check the ductwork. Something as simple as dirty ducts could be to blame. Here are some signs your HVAC system needs air duct cleaning:

If you’ve recently had your home remodeled or renovated, dirt, dust and assorted particles from the project will make their way into the ducts. Once settled inside, the debris will compromise the airflow through your home. As a result, it’ll strain your HVAC system.

Remodeling or Renovation Debris

A Strange Odor

If you keep your home clean and fresh but still notice an obvious or inexplicable odor, have the ducts checked. Over time, as dust and dirt particles accumulate and cook in the ductwork, they will emit smelly air into your home.

When your HVAC system needs a checkup, we’re here to help find the source of the problem and fix it. Our experienced staff at Cool Connections, Inc. knows what it takes to get your system running at maximum capacity. Call us at (904) 908-5252 to schedule an air duct cleaning appointment today.

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4 Reasons an Oversized AC System Causes Problems

Fri, 20 Sep 2019 10:32:00 GMT

Comfort

Air conditioners perform two tasks: They cool your home and remove moisture. In order to effectively remove the moisture from the air in your home, your HVAC unit must run for an adequate amount of time. When a unit is oversized, it’ll satisfy cooling requirements so quickly that the system doesn’t have enough time to adequately dehumidify the air. As a result, your house will feel sticky, stuffy and uncomfortable.

An oversized air conditioner starts and stops more often than a correctly sized unit. Units that are too big simply don’t have to run very long to meet the settings on your thermostat . They’ll run for a little while, shut off, then restart again a few minutes later. This constant starting and stopping wears out HVAC equipment. As a result, it leads to frequent breakdowns, expensive repair bills and a shorter lifespan.

Wear and Tear

Installing an air conditioner that’s too powerful for your Middleburg, Florida, home might seem impossible. However, the truth is that an oversized air conditioner can lead to a multitude of problems. Air conditioners that are too big experience greater wear and tear, adversely affect comfort levels, cost more and are noisier than correctly sized units. Read on to learn more about the problems an oversized AC system causes.

An oversized AC system will cost you in more ways than one. Due to the frequent starts and stops, an oversized air conditioner is less efficient and drives up your utility bills. Thanks to the wear and tear it experiences, the unit is more likely to break down and require expensive repairs . You’ll also spend more with installation than you would a smaller, more appropriately sized unit.

Expense

Noise

HVAC units installed and sized correctly run quietly. Conversely, oversized units are often much louder than what you would expect. Noise issues are most obvious in smaller spaces, such as condos or apartments, but can affect larger homes as well.

Do you need help with sizing your AC system ? Give Cool Connections, Inc. a call at (904) 908-5252 .

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Here’s What You Need to Know About SEER Ratings

Mon, 26 Aug 2019 16:21:00 GMT

What SEER Rating Should I Look For?

Since 2017, the state of Florida has required new HVAC units to have a SEER rating of 14 or more. If you have a unit that’s 15 years old, it’s likely that your SEER is somewhere around 9. Although it’s grandfathered in by the law, you’re not meeting the minimum efficiency requirement. SEER ratings go all the way up to 23, and a professional installer can help you determine which is right for your home.

SEER is an acronym that stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rate. It has been the accepted standard for calculating efficiency since the Air Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) defined it in 2008. It measures the cooling capacity per unit of electricity that’s used and expressed as a number such as 14.5, which is the minimum in order to receive the government’s Energy Star label. That designation means the appliance meets standards of efficiency, cost savings and protection for the planet. The higher the number, the more efficient the system.

What’s a SEER Rating?

When it comes to summers in Jacksonville, Florida, the efficiency and proper function of your air conditioner are vital to cool and dehumidify your home. If your HVAC unit has begun to show its age, it’s worth replacing it. Here’s what you need to know about SEER ratings.

It may feel like a big investment. But for most homeowners looking to balance initial cost with energy savings over time, a SEER rating of between 15 and 18 is a good choice. You’ll notice a smaller power bill right away if you’re replacing an old unit.

We’re here to offer our advice and expertise. Let the professionals at Cool Connections, Inc. help you determine if replacing your HVAC unit is the smart choice for your energy use. Call us today at (904) 908-5252 .

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Decide What to Buy

3 Ways to Save Money on Air Conditioning

Fri, 26 Jul 2019 13:22:00 GMT

Schedule Regular AC Maintenance

Regular air conditioning maintenance will save you money on your energy bills. This service will include checking that your AC system is operating correctly and replacing any malfunctioning moving parts or hoses. Remember to replace your air filter monthly during summer. As a result, you’ll help to prevent higher energy bills and poor indoor air quality. You’ll also lower the risk of experiencing a breakdown and requiring an AC repair.

During installation, situate your outdoor AC system in a shady area. Ensure there’s sufficient room to dispose of hot air from your home. Don’t crowd the area around your unit with shrubs, plants or anything else. Keep the area clean and remove leaves or other debris from the base.

Mind the Location of Your AC System

During hot summer days in Jacksonville, Florida, it’s tempting to run your air conditioner on full blast. However, there are many ways to keep your home cool on a hot and humid day without driving up your energy bill. Let’s look at three ways to save money on air conditioning.

Leaving y our air conditioning running day and night will guarantee a high energy bill. Avoid this by installing a smart thermostat .

Smart thermostats allow you to regulate cooling when you aren’t home. Plus, you can adjust the temperature remotely using an app on your smartphone. Program your AC system to higher temperatures while you’re away from your home, and set it to cool down just before you get home. As a result, you’ll maintain a comfortable home at all times without a high energy bill.

For other ideas on how to save money on air conditioning this summer, contact Cool Connections, Inc. at (904) 908-5252 . One of our friendly service technicians is ready to help you optimize your comfort and lower your cooling costs.

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Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat

What are the Signs of an AC Refrigerant Leak?

Tue, 18 Jun 2019 12:28:00 GMT

Frozen Coils

The evaporator coils require sufficient airflow to operate correctly. When the refrigerant is leaking, this compromises airflow. Evaporator coils will often freeze when there’s a refrigerant leak. Frozen evaporator coils can cause a lot of damage to the AC system and lead to expensive repairs. Much of the time, frozen coils will overheat the AC system.

The refrigerant in an AC system absorbs indoor heat and expels it into the outside air. When the refrigerant level is low or depleted, your AC system loses cooling power. It may not even reach your desired temperature. The AC system will continue to operate to maintain your desired temperature, and this leads to a significant amount of energy waste . As a result, you’ll notice an increase in your cooling expenses.

Low Cooling Power

Have you noticed the air conditioner in your Fernandina, Florida, home isn’t cooling like it normally does? If so, you may have a refrigerant leak. Reduced airflow and a hissing noise are both signs of an AC refrigerant leak. Regardless of the cause of the leak, it’s important to have it repaired as soon as possible.

A refrigerant leak is usually caused by holes or cracks in the evaporator coils. As the refrigerant leaks, you’ll notice a hissing noise. If it’s a large leak, you might even hear a gurgling sound. Any time you notice a hissing or gurgling noise, turn off the AC system and contact an HVAC service technician immediately.

Hissing Sound

Warm Air

If you notice warm air blowing from the air registers, check the thermostat. Someone may have adjusted the temperature without you knowing. If the thermostat is set to your desired temperature and the air registers are still blowing warm air, you might have a refrigerant leak.

Some people use sealants as a temporary fix to refrigerant leaks. This temporary solution can end up doing more harm than good. If you think you have a refrigerant leak, make sure to contact Cool Connections, Inc. at (904) 908-5252 to schedule an AC repair session.

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3 HVAC Technologies Worth Investing In

Sat, 18 May 2019 16:11:00 GMT

Motion-Activated Systems

Motion-activated HVAC systems offer one of the most efficient ways to heat or cool your home. Sensors are placed throughout the home and send a signal to the HVAC system when people are present in the room, triggering it to turn on. With these systems, your HVAC system will only run when it detects a presence, allowing you to save significantly on energy when no one is in the room.

Heat pumps can be water-to-air, ground-to-air, and air-to-air. Rather than generating heat itself, a heat pump works by carrying heat inside or outside depending on the weather. During warmer weather, the pump will transfer heat outside the house to help keep indoor temperatures cool. During the cold winter months, however, you can set the pump to extract heat from the outside and bring it into the home.

Heat pumps often make a great addition to traditional HVAC systems by improving energy use . These systems don’t use energy to burn fuel, making them significantly less expensive to operate.

Heat Pumps

Your HVAC system is the heart of your Jacksonville, Florida, home. It’s one of the main reasons your house remains comfortable. In an increasingly technology-based world, HVAC systems are continuing to evolve and develop to improve the comfort of your home and provide added convenience. If you want to stay up-to-date with the latest technologies for your home, some HVAC features are worth the initial investment.

Everything is getting smarter these days, so why shouldn’t your HVAC system do the same? With smart homes becoming increasingly common, creating smart controls for your HVAC system seems like the next logical step. Smart system integration can be as simple as an app-controlled thermostat that lets you monitor your heating and cooling from any smart device. You can even make use of home assistance to control your HVAC system by voice or through motion activation.

Looking to upgrade your home with some of the latest technology features? Contact Cool Connections, Inc. at (904) 908-5252 today. A member of our knowledgeable team will discuss your options and help you find the right system for your home.

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Smart Home Integration

4 Signs That You Need an Insulation Upgrade

Sat, 13 Apr 2019 13:00:00 GMT

Hot and Cold Spots Around Your Home

When you have worn or damaged insulation in areas throughout your home, it could result in some rooms feeling warmer or colder than others. You may also want to check your insulation if you notice that certain rooms aren’t as comfortable as they were in previous years.

If your heating and cooling bills have been higher than normal, it could be a sign that your air conditioning is leaking through poor insulation. It could also be a sign that your insulation isn’t working properly to keep hot air out of your home. Therefore, you should consider an upgrade.

Higher Than Normal Utility Bills

Keeping your Jacksonville, Florida, home properly insulated is important for keeping your home running efficiently. It’s also vital for maintaining good comfort levels in the home. Unfortunately, your insulation can become worn or damaged over time. Replacing or upgrading it is necessary. If you notice any of these signs, it may be time to consider an insulation upgrade.

If you’ve had a recent problem with pests in your home, it may be wise to check your insulation for damage. Pests such as mice, squirrels, bats and snakes may have made the insulation in your attic or crawlspace their home for the winter months. Insulation is a common place for them to make nests and also leave behind bacteria. If you detect the presence of pests in your insulation, you should remove and replace it.

You Detect the Presence of Pests

Drafty Areas Around Your Home

Drafty areas may be a sign of leaks around windows and doors. But they also could be a sign that your insulation is worn in those areas. If you reseal windows and door frames and still feel drafts, odds are your insulation is the culprit.

If you detect any of these signs of poor or damaged insulation, call us at (904) 908-5252 today. Cool Connections, Inc. will help you find the best insulation to suit your home.

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Why Skipping Air Duct Cleaning Could Be Costly

Wed, 13 Mar 2019 11:51:00 GMT

Don’t Overlook Air Duct Cleaning

Skipping ductwork cleaning could even result in system damage and higher energy bills. Dirty ducts will cause polluted air to recycle through the system continuously. Any deposits or accumulation on HVAC components will affect their operation and increase wear and tear. As the system works harder to deliver the comfort you need, it uses more energy.

Regular filter changes still won’t be enough to counteract the effects of dirty ducts. Your team at Cool Connections, Inc., will provide an honest and thorough assessment. Our service includes sanitizing the entire length of the ductwork, grilles, fan motor, and other components. If you’ve never scheduled an air duct cleaning, it’s time to give us a call. We have the equipment and expertise to complete the job efficiently. You can reach us at (904) 908-5252 for more information or to schedule an appointment.

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In most modern homes, wall registers are the norm. However, you might find floor registers in older homes. Whenever your furnace or air conditioner cycles on, air moves to rooms through the registers via the ductwork. Dirt, dust, and other particles can accumulate in the ductwork over time. Additionally, if you’ve been neglecting HVAC maintenance, buildup in the system will affect the quality of air that passes through the ductwork.

Floor registers are even more problematic since they are prone to collecting even more debris. As you continue to use your HVAC system, the debris circulates throughout the indoor air. Polluted air can cause allergic reactions and will affect persons in your home who have asthma or other respiratory conditions. Poor indoor air quality can also be a problem even for those who are not typically sensitive. Prolonged exposure to airborne contaminants can cause frequent headaches, nausea, dizziness, and flu-like symptoms.

Ductwork and Your Indoor Air Quality

If you have a central HVAC system, your air conditioning and heating units deliver air via the ductwork. When thinking about comfort, you likely focus on the thermostat and the visible HVAC units. Few people give any thought to the ductwork in their Middleburg, Florida, home. However, skipping air duct cleaning could affect comfort, indoor air quality , and energy use.

3 Simple and Inexpensive Ways to Prevent Energy Waste

Fri, 08 Feb 2019 21:52:00 GMT

Replace Your Air Filter

To reduce the amount of energy that your HVAC system uses, there’s perhaps nothing more important than regular HVAC maintenance . A professional will handle the major maintenance tasks. However, you should make it a habit to change your air filter regularly or as soon as it is dirty. A dirty air filter impedes efficient airflow and causes the heating and cooling units to work harder and use more energy.

Even if your home is relatively new, it could still have problems with air leaks. The seams around doors, windows, light fixtures and pipes on external walls are the most common culprits. Fortunately, weatherstripping provides an easy and affordable fix that you can apply in no time.

It’s easy to determine if you have an air leak. You can see gaps around windows and doors. You’ll also be able to feel a draft. Simply adding weatherstripping wherever there are leaky seams can curb energy waste and reduce the strain on your HVAC system.

Add Weatherstripping

According to studies, homes and businesses in the United States waste a staggering $130 billion in energy every year. That’s a lot of expenditure and energy waste. You can help the environment and reduce energy consumption in your Jacksonville, Florida, home by following a few simple tips.

You can reduce the amount of energy your HVAC system uses by choosing energy saving settings when you’re asleep or away from home. However, you might not always remember to adjust the temperature. A programmable thermostat provides an easy solution to this problem. You will be able to program your thermostat in advance, based on your schedule. These devices and their convenient features allow you to automate temperature settings for greater efficiency and reduced energy waste.

Making your Jacksonville home more efficient doesn’t require a major effort. These recommendations are easy to implement and very affordable. You’ll appreciate the improvement in savings and comfort. At Cool Connections, we can provide the services and advice that help you to reduce energy waste. Call us today at (904) 908-5252 to find out about other solutions like our home insulation services .

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Install a Programmable Thermostat

3 Furnace Problems That Could Affect You This Winter

Fri, 28 Dec 2018 14:02:00 GMT

The Blower Fan Does Not Shut Off

If the fan won’t shut off, there could be a problem with the limit switch. The switch determines when the furnace’s blower fan turns on and off. Its safety feature will turn off the burner or furnace if the temperature gets too high.

Operating the furnace when there’s a problem with any component wastes energy and can damage the unit. Our service technicians will check all components to determine the source of the problem.

Several problems that could cause cold air to come from vents when you’re using your heater. If you have an old gas furnace, check if the pilot light is on. If the light is out, it can’t fire up the burners to produce heat. If you don’t feel comfortable handling the pilot light, our service technicians will gladly help and show you the process.

Additionally, dirty or clogged air filters can restrict warm air coming into your home. Clean or change your air filters regularly. A clean filter helps to keep your furnace running efficiently.

Cold Air From Vents

When it gets chilly in St. Augustine, Florida, it is comforting to know your heater will keep you and your family toasty warm. However, if you find that your furnace just isn’t keeping your home warm enough, then it is time to give us a call. Let’s take a look at three common furnace problems issues and their causes.

If the screen is blank, check that the batteries are functioning. If the thermostat is working fine, make sure that it is set to “heat.” Check the circuit breaker if you have an electric heater. Make sure the pilot light is on if you’re using an older gas furnace.

A clogged filter can also limit airflow and cause heat pressure to build up in the furnace. Safety features in many of today’s designs will prevent the system from cycling on so you avoid further problems. If you need a furnace repair or new furnace installation, call Cool Connections, Inc. You can reach us at (904) 908-5252 .

The Furnace Won’t Turn On

4 Signs Your Home’s Insulation May Need Attention

Thu, 22 Nov 2018 19:04:00 GMT

Moisture Issues

When exposed to moisture, certain types of insulation will break down or wear away, leaving gaps and holes. Damage to the material will affect its ability to block air transfer between rooms or between your home and the outdoors. Damp or wet spots in the insulation in your attic can lead to more serious problems if not addressed. Locate and repair the cause of moisture intrusion to prevent fungi growth and damage to the replacement insulation.

Do you notice uneven temperatures from one room to the next? Are the upstairs rooms in your home consistently warmer than areas on the main floor? You might find it difficult to manage comfort throughout your home because of temperature variations. If so, it’s a good idea to contact a professional to see if the insulation could be playing a role. It’s likely that the material in certain areas of your home is worn out and should be replaced.

Drafts

You rely on your HVAC system to keep you comfortable in your Fleming Island, Florida, home. If you’ve found that you’re dealing with drafts, inconsistent temperatures, humidity issues, or high energy bills, your home’s insulation may need attention.

High energy bills could be a sign of problems with HVAC efficiency . Inadequate insulation will cause your system to work harder to provide the level of comfort your household needs. If the padding cannot reduce heat transfer, your HVAC system will have to compensate. The extra effort from your system means it will use more energy and subsequently increase your energy bills.

Professionally installed insulation will keep you and your family members comfortable in every room. You’ll also be able to maximize the energy efficiency of your HVAC system in any weather. If you suspect that your home’s insulation is not satisfying your home comfort needs, contact the professionals at Cool Connections, Inc. We can help improve the HVAC efficiency in your home to meet your specific needs. Call us today at (904) 908-5252 .

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Increasing Energy Bills

How Often Do You Need to Change Your Air Filter?

Sun, 28 Oct 2018 14:18:00 GMT

The Health of Occupants

If anyone in your home suffers from asthma or allergies, you will need to replace your filter more often. People with respiratory illnesses are more sensitive to airborne particles. For those with chronic health problems, it’s a good idea to invest in a high-quality air filter. At a minimum, basic filters catch only some or primarily large particles. Top-rated filters can trap minute particles and even tobacco smoke and keep them out of your indoor air.

On average, you should change your air filter every one to three months. If conditions in or around your home cause IAQ issues , you will need to replace your air filter more frequently. For example, persons who live in or around dusty conditions should check the filter regularly. How often you change your filter will also depend on the type. Filters with high MERV (minimum efficiency reporting value) are of better quality and last longer.

General Requirements

Keeping your HVAC system functioning properly and efficiently is vital to keeping your Jacksonville, Florida, home at a comfortable temperature all year long. To make sure your HVAC system is working at an optimal level, you should change your air filter regularly. The question is, how often do you really need to do so?

Pets can leave a lot behind, including dander and pet hair. These contaminants will then circulate through your HVAC system and your home. When you have pets, you might find that the filter gets dirty quickly. Make it a habit to check your air filter frequently—even if it has a high MERV rating. Set reminders to help you stay on top of this important task.

If you’re not sure what kind of filter you need or what constitutes a dirty air filter, give us a call. The HVAC specialists at Cool Connections, Inc. are always ready to help. Contact us at (904) 908-5252 today for more information. We’re happy to help you protect your household’s health.

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A Home With Pets

4 Reasons Your Air Conditioner Might Overheat

Sun, 23 Sep 2018 15:07:00 GMT

Dirty Fan Blades

Like your air filters, the fan blades inside your air conditioning unit can collect dirt. While this might not seem like a big deal, it puts a lot of pressure on the blades. The motor will have to work harder to keep the blades spinning, and this puts it at risk for overheating.

Air filters remove particles like dust from the indoor air. Over time, the accumulation of contaminants will clog the air filter. A blocked filter causes strain on your air conditioner and forces it to work harder, which can lead to the motor overheating.

A Dirty Air Filter

Dirty Condenser Coils

Your air conditioner keeps your Jacksonville, Florida, home cool and comfortable all summer long. However, if your AC isn’t working properly, it can get hot. This creates a fire hazard that could put your home and family at risk. The following are a few reasons your air conditioner might overheat.

The condenser coils are housed in the outdoor component of your air conditioning system. As a result, dust, dirt, grass, and other material settle on the coils. Therefore, without regular cleaning, the buildup of debris can affect the unit’s performance and cause it to overheat.

Over time, parts and connections within your air conditioner can start to fail. Wear and tear from the frequent operation will take a toll on various components and cause cracks and other damage. As you continue to use the system, the demand on the weakened parts, loss of lubrication, or faulty electrical connections can cause overheating. Preventive maintenance is the best way to avoid these problems.

Keep in mind that you should never try to diagnose or fix these problems on your own. It’s not safe, and you could cause further damage to your HVAC system. Instead, give Cool Connections, Inc. a call. We offer comprehensive air conditioning repair and installation services . Our effective maintenance service helps to ward off problems that could cause your air conditioner to overheat. Contact us today at (904) 908-5252 to schedule your appointment.

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Damaged Components

Consider Dryer Vent Cleaning for Fresher Clothes

Thu, 30 Aug 2018 17:35:00 GMT

If your dryer overheats, that could be a sign that the vent is dirty. If your clothes are so hot that you have to wait before removing them from the dryer, something is amiss. This level of heat is potentially dangerous. A clogged dryer vent can generate so much heat that it causes a fire. Cleaning your dryer vents is a smart way to stay safe. Also, remember to check the filter on your machine. A clogged filter can also affect drying efficiency and could eventually be a safety hazard.

Keep Cool With Clean Vents

Stop Moisture and Mustiness

Your dryer is an essential appliance in your Jacksonville, FL, home, and a critical tool for making chores a lot simpler. Considering how often you use your dryer, you want to make sure it delivers the performance you need. If your dryer isn’t working as it should, it can affect your time, pocketbook, and peace of mind . Dryer vent cleaning offers many benefits and will protect your investment so it lasts longer.

A clogged dryer vent could leave your clothing damp at the end of the cycle. If this is the case, whenever you do laundry, you will have to run another cycle. Until you repair the unit, you are likely to see higher electric bills. Leave those warm damp clothes to sit for too long, and they can become a breeding ground for fungi growth. You will end up spending more time and energy to rewash your clothes. After a dryer vent cleaning, your appliance will run quickly and efficiently, providing you with fresh clothes in just one cycle.

Banish unwanted moisture and restore efficiency to your dryer. Schedule regular dryer vent cleanings to clear the accumulated dust and dirt from this area. Contact Cool Connections, Inc. at (904) 908-5252 to book your appointment now. Our skilled service technicians will respect your property and complete all tasks as quickly and efficiently as possible. We’re happy to provide the advice and solutions you need.

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Comparing Ductless Air Conditioning and Ducted Systems

Mon, 20 Aug 2018 17:36:00 GMT

Indoor and Outdoor Components

Both central and ductless air conditioners accomplish heat transfer by dividing the work between the inside air handler and the outside compressor unit. There is no visible indoor component with traditional air conditioning systems. The air handler is often tucked away in an area that looks like a closet. On the other hand, a ductless air conditioner consists of an indoor unit that connects to the outdoor compressor via a narrow tube. You will generally see the indoor component mounted on an interior wall near the ceiling.

As the heat bears down in Jacksonville, we know you appreciate the cool air coming through the vents. Air conditioners and heat pumps send the hot air in your home outdoors via the cooling coils. The refrigerant in the evaporator coils extracts the heat as the air passes over. The heated refrigerant then releases the heat outdoors and returns cool air. Your ductless unit transfers heat in the same way.

Heat Transfer

Independent Temperature Control

During this hot Jacksonville, Florida, summer, you may be considering an air conditioner upgrade . You are accustomed to traditional central air conditioning units, but do you know how a ductless air conditioner works? We’ll compare ductless air conditioning and ducted systems as you consider your new installation.

Central air conditioners move air to rooms through a series of ducts installed behind the walls near the floor or close to the ceiling. The ducts carry air to various rooms throughout the house via registers or grilles. The result is the same thermostat setting for each area regardless of specific cooling needs. You can install a ductless air conditioner in more than one room, and the system will deliver cool air directly to each area. This setup offers more control. Each ductless unit comes with a thermostat for easy temperature management.

A ductless air conditioner may be an ideal choice for you . These units are perfect if you are expanding your home and want to avoid the expense and inconvenience of adding ductwork. Contact Cool Connections, Inc. at (904) 908-5252 to discuss the best option for cooling your home.

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How to Set Your Thermostat for Maximum Energy Efficiency

Wed, 25 Jul 2018 10:39:00 GMT

How to Set Your Thermostat

The U.S. Department of Energy recommends a setting of about 78 degrees while you’re at home. You can adjust above or slightly below the recommended 78 degrees. Ultimately, you will need to set the temperature that works best for your household. Note that for each degree you increase your thermostat, you can improve energy savings. Consequently, you will increase energy usage for each degree you lower the temperature.

Your air conditioner should keep you comfortable no matter how hot it gets outside. Although you want to keep cool during summer, be careful not keep the temperature lower than necessary. The greater the difference between the indoor and outdoor temperatures, the harder the unit has to work. If your AC is always running, it will consume more energy. To reduce your energy usage, you should set the temperature as high as possible without sacrificing comfort.

Optimize Temperature Settings

Use Programmable Features

You need your air conditioner for comfort during the hot months, but if you’re not careful, you’ll likely incur higher energy costs. One way to manage energy bills is to set your thermostat correctly. You can create a pleasant environment in your Orange, Park, FL, home without seeing skyrocketing utility bills. Follow this guide to set your thermostat for maximum energy efficiency.

If you have a programmable thermostat, you can take advantage of its features to reduce your energy costs. You can program your thermostat to change the indoor temperature at different times of the day according to your schedule. For example, you can set your thermostat to a higher temperature while you are away at work. The programming function will enable it to restore a more comfortable temperature by the time you return.

When you use your thermostat correctly, you strike the perfect balance between comfort and cost. If you’re ready to install a new thermostat or repair your current thermostat, contact Cool Connections, Inc. today at (904) 908-5252 .

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How to Tell If Your Air Conditioner Needs Repairs

Fri, 06 Jul 2018 10:27:00 GMT

Moisture or Leakage Around Your AC

If you see moisture around your AC, it could mean there’s a refrigerant leak or a condensate drain blockage. Refrigerant leaks pose severe health risks to you and your family. A blocked condensate drain can cause pools of water to form next to your unit. This often means a broken drain tube or debris accumulation is causing water to overflow. As water settles, it can cause fungi and bacteria to develop and affect your indoor air quality.

Higher utility bills can indicate that your air conditioner is not operating efficiently. This is true if your energy bills are increasing with no change in circumstances and you are observing optimal thermostat settings. The problem can range from clogged air filters or ducts to major mechanical problems. You will need to schedule an appointment to determine the cause of the decreased efficiency.

Increase in Your Energy Bills

Strange Sounds

It can be very hot and humid during the summer months in Jacksonville, Florida. To beat the heat, you need to make sure your AC system is in optimal condition. You might be tempted to ignore AC issues, but it’s a good idea to consult a professional. You can avoid a costly breakdown by addressing AC repairs promptly. A few telltale signs can alert you that your air conditioner needs repairs.

Grinding, grating, and squealing sounds from your air conditioner may indicate that one of its components is malfunctioning or broken. A squealing sound can be the result of a belt slipping out of place or a metal component needing lubrication. A grinding noise, on the other hand, may mean broken motor bearings.

If your AC is showing these signs, it’s a good idea to have our service technicians perform a thorough inspection. When your air conditioner needs repairs, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with Cool Connections, Inc. Early detection of problems can reduce repair costs substantially. For expert AC inspection or repairs , give us a call at (904) 908-5252 .

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3 Ways to Make Sure You’re Prepared This Hurricane Season

Sun, 24 Jun 2018 17:36:00 GMT

Gather Emergency Supplies

Stock at least three days of non-perishable food items and three gallons of water per person in your family. Also, prepare a disaster kit with the following items:

The first step in preparing for the hurricane season is knowing the evacuation zones and having an evacuation plan. Determine how you will contact everyone in your family if you’re separated, and establish a meeting place. It’s not a bad idea to do a practice run. You’ll ensure everyone is familiar with the route and will feel comfortable if it ever becomes necessary to evacuate.

Make an Emergency Plan

Protect Your Property

As a resident of Jacksonville, Florida, you are used to summers with heat indexes that reach over a hundred degrees and winter temperatures that hover around the low 20s. Then, there is severe weather that includes tornadoes and lightning storms. Floridians have to brace for all kinds of seasonal challenges. Perhaps the most worrisome, however, is the threat of hurricanes from June to November. To minimize loss, damage, and injury, never underestimate the impact of these storm systems. Keep your home and loved ones safe by preparing in advance for the hurricane season.

Clean outdoor drains to prevemt damage from pooling water. Wind-blown items and flooding can affect your air conditioning unit. If a hurricane is approaching, move outdoor furniture and garbage cans indoors, and secure windows and doors.

Make copies of important documents, including home and health insurance policies. You should keep these in a portable, waterproof container. Taking these precautions can mitigate any loss in the event of a hurricane. For information about repairing HVAC systems after a storm, contact the experts at Cool Connections, Inc. at (904) 908-5252 .

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First aid supplies
Flashlights
Hand crank or battery-powered radio
Batteries for flashlights and radios
Clothing
Garbage bags, moist towelettes, and plastic ties
Manual can opener
Medications and pain relievers
Sleeping bags and blankets

Remember to have cash on hand. If you have an infant or pets, remember to include supplies they will need, too.

Simple Tips for Beating the Heat in Jacksonville, FL

Sat, 16 Jun 2018 17:29:00 GMT

Try Landscaping Hacks

Planting trees can enhance the appearance of your Jacksonville home and also keep out some of the sun’s rays. Strategically placed trees will lower the effects of sunlight on indoor temperatures. Choosing the right landscaping options can decrease the amount of energy needed to cool your home. Your local home improvement store is likely to have varieties that are easy to transplant. Trees and shrubs can also shade the outdoor unit. Just be careful to leave sufficient room around the unit. Plant today, and reap benefits in the future. You’ll enjoy better results from your AC even on the hottest days in northern Florida.

Sunlight shining through your windows can have a significant impact on the temperatures inside your Jacksonville home. Applying window film or adding curtains can block the sun’s rays and keep temperatures lower indoors. Reflective window film can prevent as much as 75 percent of solar energy from affecting your home without obstructing visibility. Blackout curtains can provide many of the same benefits. These window treatments can boost the effectiveness of your air conditioning unit for greater comfort and lower utility bills this summer.

Use Window Treatments

Check Insulation

Making sure your Jacksonville, FL, home stays cool and comfortable when the heat and humidity are high can be a challenge. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends taking extra precautions to keep your family safe. Here are some proven tips to help you beat the heat and keep your home cooler for the entire season.

According to the professionals at the U.S. Department of Energy , adding insulation to your home will improve comfort and lower utility bills. Our qualified service technicians will determine the right amount and type of insulation for your home. Our goal is to help you keep your family comfortable throughout the year.

At Cool Connections, Inc., we offer comprehensive heating and air conditioning services. Our NATE-certified technicians are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to provide emergency AC repairs. We can help you beat the heat and still manage your cooling bills. To learn more, call us today at (904) 908-5252 . We look forward to serving you and providing reliable solutions to your cooling needs.

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How Attic Insulation Improves Indoor Comfort

Fri, 18 May 2018 18:38:00 GMT

Lower Energy Bills

When your air conditioner doesn’t have to work so hard, you conserve energy and reduce demand on the power grid. That also means a decrease in your monthly energy bills, leaving more money in your budget. It won’t take long for you to notice the difference in air conditioning performance and your cooling bills. Our service technicians will provide an honest assessment to help you determine the best type and amount of insulation for your space.

As the sun blazes down on the roof of your Jacksonville home, your attic is heating up. It can reach a stifling 140 degrees or more. That warmth transfers into the rafters, ceilings, walls, and even inside your house. Your air conditioner becomes less efficient and has to work harder to cool the rooms in your home. Using blown or blown-in insulation is one way you can upgrade to the R-Value recommended for our area. Adequate insulation reduces the load on your AC and helps it to maintain a more consistent temperature and humidity level.

Better Temperature Control

Upgrade Today

You keep up with preventive maintenance and change the air filter regularly. However, you realize that the AC is running constantly and barely keeping you comfortable. The problem may not be with the unit. In hot regions like Macclenny, Florida, good attic insulation can make a big difference. Whether your home is old or new, attic insulation reduces energy waste and cooling bills and improves comfort in every season.

Although adding blown-in insulation may seem like a simple DIY project, it is best to hire a professional for this job. The certified technicians at Cool Connections, Inc. are trained to find and seal air leaks in your attic. Act now to supplement or upgrade your insulation and ensure efficient air conditioning this summer.

Call us today at (904) 908-5252 to find out more about adding blown-in insulation to your home. You can trust our team of professionals for clean and efficient service. We’re also strict about respecting your home and privacy.

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Why Spring Is a Great Time for AC Maintenance

Mon, 30 Apr 2018 11:27:00 GMT

Invest in Higher Performance

Annual routine maintenance helps your AC run better and also keeps you more comfortable. You may find that simply changing a clogged air filter will give you a small boost in efficiency and performance. This simple task can reduce energy usage by as much as 15 percent, according to the U.S. Energy Department . You should change your filter regularly, but our service technicians will also include that task in their duties.

Start your summer on the right foot with a spring maintenance tuneup. Our certified HVAC technician will clean the coils, check the drains, and look for worn or loose parts. We’ll ensure that your system will be in the best possible condition before the heat and humidity arrive. Preventive maintenance can help you avoid a midsummer breakdown or a costly repair.

Get in Shape for Summer

Keep Money in Your Pocket

Summer is just around the corner, and there’s still time to get in a spring maintenance checkup for your cooling system. This isn’t a step you should skip. The long, hot summers in Jacksonville, Florida, put extra wear and tear on air conditioning equipment. Annual system maintenance is, therefore, extremely important. This is the right time to set up an appointment for AC maintenance so you avoid emergencies or expensive repairs.

AC maintenance is an investment that pays you. Research shows that proper maintenance boosts the energy efficiency of the system and contributes to a longer operating life. That could mean getting a few extra seasons out of your air conditioner before you have to replace it. Additionally, the improved efficiency brings savings on your monthly electric bill.

The experienced service technicians at Cool Connections, Inc. are ready to serve residents and businesses in the Jacksonville, Florida area. We make it easy for you to schedule your appointment for AC maintenance. For more information about the importance of annual air conditioning tuneups, give us a call today at (904) 908-5252 or read more on our maintenance page .

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Do You Know What’s In Your Indoor Air?

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 03:00:00 GMT

Measuring Indoor Air Quality

Simple and inexpensive devices can point to problems with your indoor air quality. Carbon monoxide detectors are widely available in the marketplace and are a must-have for every home — particularly those with fuel-burning equipment. The American Lung Association reports that 50% of Americans regularly contend with poor indoor quality air.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) , indoor air quality (IAQ) refers to the quality of the air inside a building and how it affects the comfort and health of its occupants. The air that you breathe inside your home can negatively impact your health — even more than outdoor air.

What is Indoor Air Quality?

Should I Be Concerned About Poor Indoor Air Quality?

Do you know what’s in the air in your Orange Park, FL, home? If you’re not aware of the dangers that can exist indoors, it’s time you learned what contaminants could be affecting you and your family. Dust, pet dander, microbes, carbon monoxide, secondhand smoke, and radon gas are among the particles found in homes with poor air quality. Find out how you can protect your indoor air quality and keep your loved ones healthy.

Poor air quality can cause many short-term health problems. In the long run, the consequences can even be life-threatening. Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants poses a threat to adults and children. Some persons develop respiratory problems, and prolonged exposure can even lead to heart failure and cancer. Controlling the level of allergens and pollutants inside a home helps you reduce the risks of illness and diseases.

Knowing what’s in your indoor air helps you to protect your family’s health. Your team at Cool Connections, Inc. will help you to choose the right air cleaning system for your home. Call us today at (904) 908-5252 for more information about air filters, air purifiers, and other IAQ systems. We are your indoor air quality experts in the Orange Park, FL, area.

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Air Duct Cleaning Is More Important than You Might Think

Tue, 20 Mar 2018 03:06:00 GMT

Increase the Life of Your HVAC System

Having your air ducts cleaned by a qualified HVAC contractor can extend the life of your HVAC system. Debris can affect the performance of moving parts within your HVAC system. These components work harder to circulate air throughout your home. Excess wear and tear will cause malfunctions and a shortened operating life. Our service technicians will inspect your system as part of the duct cleaning process.

Home renovations can bring about a need for duct cleaning. When renovating, sawdust, paint, and other air pollutants can affect your indoor air quality . Asbestos is among the most harmful air-pollutants found during home improvements and renovations. Asbestos is linked to mesothelioma, a type of lung cancer. Duct cleaning can remove this and other pollutants that gather in your ducts during the home improvement process.

Be Careful During Home Renovations

Increase Energy Efficiency

Increase Indoor Air Quality

Since air duct cleaning improves your air quality, that alone is a good reason to invest in this service. Dirty ducts can put your family at risk for allergies and respiratory illnesses. Clean ducts mean your family is breathing in fresh and healthy air. For more information about duct cleaning or to schedule an appointment, call Cool Connections, Inc. today at (904) 908-5252 .

Image provided by Shutterstock

In Jacksonville, Florida, it’s important to have a fully functioning HVAC system that delivers wholesome air to your household. Dirty air ducts can be hazardous to your health and even prevent your heater or air conditioner from working properly. Air duct cleaning is an effective way to keep particles like pollen, bacteria, and fungi out of your indoor air and your HVAC system.

You can lose anywhere from 25 to 40 percent of energy via the ductwork, and dirty ducts contribute to this when they obstruct airflow. Underperforming and malfunctioning parts result in excess energy usage which equates to more money spent on heating and cooling your home. Duct cleaning will increase AC performance and AC efficiency.

A Ductless AC Could Be Just What Your Northeast Florida Home Needs

Sat, 10 Mar 2018 01:54:00 GMT

A Ductless AC Improves IAQ

Ductwork is notorious for harboring microbes and allergens that contaminate your indoor air . If there are no dirty ducts, air will arrive at its destination clean and fresh. Mini-splits have high-efficiency filters that remove toxic airborne particles. They also have built-in dehumidifiers to manage the high moisture levels that are so common in Northeast Florida homes.

The average home loses up to 30 percent of cooled air because of leaky ductwork. Because mini-split systems don’t use ducts, there’s no loss of air. Ductless mini-splits also allow you to heat or cool just the rooms you’re using instead of an entire house. You will appreciate the improvement in comfort, and the total energy savings can be substantial.

Save on Cooling Costs

Custom Heating and Cooling

Flexible and Easy Installation

Ductless systems are perfect for home additions, attic conversions and garage remodels. Ductless AC installation is easy, and our service technicians can complete the job in a day or two. You can mount indoor units high on walls and close to the ceiling.

When you’re ready for your ductless AC installation , choose Cool Connections, Inc. Our service technicians will select the right unit and install it correctly. To learn more about upgrading to ductless heating and cooling, give us a call today at (904) 908-5252 .

Image provided by Shutterstock

Upgrading to ductless air conditioning in your St. Johns, FL, residence, can improve heating and cooling efficiency, so you reduce your energy bills. Ductless mini-splits are an energy-efficient alternative to central air conditioners and ducted heat pumps. These quiet systems have a wide range of applications and offer a variety of benefits. Upgrade to a ductless AC today to simplify air conditioning and heating for year-round comfort.

Enjoy custom heating and cooling with zoned control. Mini-splits have an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units. Each indoor unit serves a room or a zone and has its own programmable thermostat. Zoning allows you to maintain preferred temperatures in various areas. You can even control airflow to further customize indoor comfort.

Reasons You Should Clean Your Dryer Vent

Fri, 02 Mar 2018 03:05:00 GMT

Improve Energy Efficiency

Who doesn’t want to lower their electric bill? Unfortunately, forgetting to clean the dryer vent means longer drying times and higher utility bills. When dryer vents are full, hot air can’t circulate properly to dry your clothes. You may find yourself turning on your dryer multiple times to dry even smaller loads of clothes. A clogged dryer vent affects dryer performance and wastes energy.

Did you know that clogged dryer vents are responsible for more than 15,000 fires each year? According to the U.S. Fire Administration, approximately 80 percent of these fires could have been prevented if the dryer vent had been cleaned properly.

Safety First

Longer Lifespan

Take Care of Your Dryer

Just like your HVAC system, your dryer needs routine maintenance to maintain optimal performance. No matter how diligent you are with cleaning the lint trap, it’s a good idea to schedule regular dryer maintenance.

It may not seem like a big deal, but even those little fuzzies left in the dryer vent can cause serious problems. Make a point to clean your dryer vent after every use. For additional dryer safety tips, contact Cool Connections, Inc. today at (904) 908-5252 .

Image provided by Shutterstock

Your windows may sparkle, and your floors seem spotless, but how clean is your dryer vent? With all the daily demands on your life, cleaning this vent probably isn’t at the top of your to-do list. Below are three reasons that will show you why you should clean your dryer vent to improve safety and energy efficiency in your Jacksonville, FL, home.

Multiple cycles equate to extended drying times, which can slowly decrease the lifespan of your dryer. Essentially, your dryer is working overtime! Neglected dryer vents also cause excessive wear and tear on your dryer, which can eventually lead to overheating and system malfunction. Cleaning your vents improves energy efficiency and the overall performance of your dryer.

Heating and Cooling Central Air Inspection

Wed, 10 Jan 2018 15:39:00 GMT

Cool Connections 20-point Central Air Inspection

What we do on the Cooling Side

Check and adjust blower components
Check thermostat level
Check safety controls
Check all electrical connections and wires
Check voltage and amperage on motors
Check condensation drain and flush line
Check air flow
Check starting capability of compressor
Check air filter
Check overall condition and efficiency of system and controls

We always give your heating and cooling system our thorough 20-point central air inspection before a repair, so you know that your HVAC system will be fixed right the first time.

Heating and Cooling Products

Air Conditioning Repair and Service

What we do on the Heating Side

Check thermostats heating anticipators
Inspect automatic blower controls
Oil and check the fan motor bearing
Check for the safety and efficiency of low voltage wiring
Check fan limit switch
Inspect electrical shut off valve
Oil and check blower motor bearings
Check fan on and off control and set differentials
Check transformer output
Check thermostat contacts

Cool Connections, Inc. – Your Jacksonville, Florida HVAC Specialists

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Greater Jacksonville, Florida area about protecting their investment as well as energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). If you require a new system or maintenance on your current HVAC system, contact us to schedule an appointment.

Cool Connections, Inc. is a locally owned and operated business. We have thousands of customers and years of experience with HVAC service, repair, and installations for furnaces, heat pumps, air conditioning (AC) and air quality systems. Be sure to Contact Cool Connections, Inc. in Jacksonville, Florida for all your air conditioning and heating needs: (904) 908-5252 .

Let a professional HVAC adviser from Cool Connections give you a free consultation and estimate on replacing your home’s system with a new Cool Efficiency system.We install and service all major brands of heating and cooling systems, no matter where you bought it or who installed it… » Read More

Central air conditioners have two separate components: the condenser and the evaporator. The condenser unit is usually located outside the house on a concrete slab. The evaporator coil is mounted in the plenum or main duct junction above the furnace.

Most central air conditioners are connected to a home’s forced-air distribution system. Thus, the same motor, blower, and duct work used for heating are used to distribute cool air from the air conditioning system. When a central air conditioner is operating, hot air inside the house flows to the furnace through the return-air duct. The hot air is moved by the blower across the cooled evaporator coil in the plenum and is then delivered through ducts to cool the house. When the air conditioner works but the house doesn’t cool, the problem is probably in the distribution system.

Both the evaporator and the condenser are sealed. Therefore, a professional service company should be called for almost any maintenance other than routine cleaning. Central air conditioners should be professionally inspected and adjusted before the beginning of every cooling season. Schedule your repair along with our 20-point central air inspection today!

Replace or Test Smoke Detectors Around Your House

Thu, 04 Jan 2018 16:06:00 GMT

When It’s Time to Replace Detectors

There are detectors that offer digital displays and some models even come with voice alerts. Smoke detectors can be interconnected — when one sounds, they all start to sound, quickly alerting you to a problem. Carbon monoxide detectors with a “fuel-cell electrochemical” sensor are the most accurate.

It’s advised that you check the batteries on your detectors monthly by simply pressing the “test” button on them. If you don’t hear a sound when you test them, it’s time to install new batteries.

Although your alarms may sound with that pesky, attention-getting chirp when it’s time to replace the batteries, there is no obvious indication when your detectors have reached the end of their lives. Detectors that have reached their expiration should be replaced immediately. The following tips will help you ensure your detectors are in proper working order in your home:

Remove detectors from your ceilings and walls and check the manufacture date on the back of them to find out how old they are.
Carbon monoxide detectors last on average between 5 to 7 years.
Smoke detectors last about 10 years.
Position carbon monoxide detectors on all of the levels in your home. They should be installed in hallways close to bedrooms, at least 15 feet away from fuel-burning appliances and at least 15 inches from ceilings.
Smoke detectors should be on every level of your home, in each bedroom and outside of bedrooms (i.e. hallways). Larger homes may need more detectors than this.

Ring in the New Year by replacing or testing your smoke detectors around your house.

The signs that winter is here are everywhere — crisp, cold mornings and pumpkin spice lattes abound. This also means you’ll likely be spending more time indoors for the next few weeks, warming your home with your heating system. Rest assured that your house is not only a cozy place to retreat to, but also a safe one, by checking your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors today.

Checking Your Detectors

The Jacksonville Fire Rescue Department will provide and install a free smoke detector for any qualifying Jacksonville resident living in a single-family or two-family residence. The department also will install replacement batteries in existing smoke detectors at no charge.

Smoke detectors help save lives by warning residents of a fire in time to escape.

For a free smoke detector or to arrange to have the batteries in an existing device replaced, call 904-630-CITY (2489) . It should be re-emphasized that not everyone will be eligible or meet the criteria for the service, due to the limited resources available. Exclusionary examples from the benefits of the free smoke detector program include businesses, contractors and rental properties.

Businesses, organizations or individuals who want to help prevent residential fire deaths through increased use of smoke detectors can contribute to the Mayor’s Home Fire Safety Program. Call 904-630-0445 for more information.

Smoke Detector Program

Cool Connections, Inc. – Your Jacksonville, Florida HVAC Specialists

How to Avoid Winter HVAC Problems

Wed, 27 Dec 2017 18:56:00 GMT

Not Enough Heat

If the heating system doesn’t seem to stay running long enough to adequately heat your home, you have a situation known as “short cycling.” Your HVAC technician can do some detective work to find out why it’s happening, which could be a poorly-located or faulty thermostat, under- or over-sized equipment, or a corroded flame sensor.

If some rooms are too warm while others feel too chilly when your heating system is running, check that the louvers are open on all your registers first. Then, examine the air filter because a clogged filter can reduce the amount of warm air that’s delivered to each room. Other possible causes that will require a professional diagnosis are leaky, damaged ducts or unbalanced airflow through the HVAC system.

Winter HVAC Problems – Learn how you can avoid them. In the winter, you rely on your HVAC system to keep your home comfortably warm. However, your home comfort can be jeopardized by a variety of wintertime heating system problems. Here are some common winter HVAC problems and what you should do to resolve them:

Inconsistent Heating

If your furnace or heat pump suddenly stops cycling on, it may just need a simple fix like replacing dead thermostat batteries or a badly-clogged air filter, which can severely reduce airflow so the furnace overheats and triggers the high limit safety switch. Your heat pump can shut down similarly if the outdoor unit is covered with ice or snow and can’t defrost on its own. If none of these issues seem to be the cause, contact your HVAC pro to check for more serious problems.

Sudden Loss of Heat

Combustion Fume or Gas Odors

Both of these issues pose serious safety hazards, so contact your home heating contractor immediately, and head over to a neighbor’s house until the problem is solved. Backdrafting combustion fumes from an obstructed vent system can pump deadly carbon monoxide gas through your home, while leaking gas lines can cause dizziness, vomiting and even asphyxiation, or an explosion or house fire. Carbon Monoxide and Home Safety

Cool Connections, Inc. – Your Jacksonville, Florida HVAC Specialists

Happy Holidays

Mon, 18 Dec 2017 15:46:00 GMT

Peace on earth

Do you and your neighbor have an ongoing feud concerning your property line or an overgrown tree? Do you not really know your neighbors at all because you work crazy hours? Haven’t seen the in laws in some time, and you’re sort of happy about that? Make the extra effort. Introduce yourself to your new neighbors with a gift basket or homemade brownies. Extend the olive branch and offer to host at your home this year. Realize that you can change your relationship with others with a simple gesture of peace during the holiday season.

Make time for others. The good deeds you do will not only help others but really allow you to experience the true meaning of the holidays. Why not volunteer at a soup kitchen, organize a toy drive for underprivileged children or even make time at your child’s school for fun activities? Even simple gestures like baking cookies for your elderly neighbors or inviting those without families to visit during the holidays can be ways to give to others what they would have missed this year.

Amazingly, the holiday season is upon us again. It feels as though this time of year comes so fast, turns our lives upside down and is over before we know it.

Sometimes it’s hard to be fully present in the moment when we’re overwhelmed and stressed about gift giving, tons of parties to attend, and juggling our families through it all. It helps to step back and take it all in. Relax and enjoy the holiday season.

Giving is better than receiving

Spread the good cheer. A positive attitude in your professional and personal life can definitely bring out the best in people. Make the extra effort to find the positive angle in situations that may not appear to be so great. Involve your family and coworkers in decision making. Find what it is that they want to do and attempt to incorporate it into “the plan.” If your coworker feels that his or her approach toward a client or situation might be the best way, let him or her try before (or even IF) you need to use your own approach. Have your children decide on, and then plan for, a family outing. Enjoy spending time together and focus on just being with them, rather than whatever is on your holiday to-do list!

Goodwill toward man

There’s No Place like Home

For the holidays, make an effort to get together with loved ones, near and far. Sure, the traffic might be terrible and maybe it’s been so long that you’d just as soon stay home. But it’s important to make the effort — especially with family, as they are the roots of who you are and where you came from. Reconnecting with cousins, aunts, uncles, nephews and nieces can be a refreshing and fun alternative to your daily grind.

Relax and enjoy the holiday season. It only comes once a year, make this year count.

Cool Connections wishes you peace, joy and prosperity throughout the coming year. Thank you for your continued support and partnership. During this season, we take time to reflect upon the good things we have. Our thoughts turn gratefully to those who have made our success possible. It is in this spirit that we say thank you and best wishes for the holidays and New Year.

Preparing for Cold Weather in Jacksonville Florida

Tue, 05 Dec 2017 14:33:00 GMT

Frozen pipes can lead to a big mess.

Here are ways to prevent pipe damage in your home:

Allow a small trickle of water to run overnight, preferably through a faucet on an outside wall.
Open kitchen and bathroom cabinets so warmer air can circulate below the sinks.
Know the locations of your shut-off valves, in case a pipe bursts.

Although it’s a warm one today, the cold will be upon us very soon.

Here are some tips to help you prepare for the colder weather coming to Northeast Florida. Here are a few tips for guidance on avoiding weather-related disasters at home.

If you haven’t already taken steps to protect your plants, here a few ways to care for them during the cold weather:

Bring your smaller container plants, especially succulents, indoors. Mulch or cover outdoor plants with straw, blankets or cardboard.
To prevent heat loss from sides of containers, push together large outdoor pots and wrap the bases with plastic, burlap or a blanket.
Rosemary topiaries or potted citrus plants or roses should be moved close to the wall of your house for warmth. Cover plants such as camellias with an old sheet or, for plants taller than 3 feet, black plastic.
Be sure to turn off automatic sprinklers, detach hoses from faucets and wrap the faucets to protect outdoor pipes.
Don’t worry if plant leaves wilt; they protect themselves against cold by dehydrating themselves. Given time, most will perk back up.
If you see damage from frost (black or purple flaccid leaves or stems), particularly on woody perennials, wait until the spring to prune so as to not shear off healthy tissue.

Protecting your plants.

Don’t forget about your pets.

Pet owners should take special precautions with their animals during freezing temperatures. It’s best to keep all pets indoors.

Dogs that live outdoors should have a doghouse that’s elevated a few inches and has cedar shavings, straw or a blanket to trap body heat. Pets that spend time outdoors need more food because cold weather saps energy.

Cats will curl up against almost anything to stay warm, including car engines. Before you turn your engine on, check beneath the car or make plenty of noise by honking the horn.

Some animals can safely remain outside longer in the winter than others. Long-haired breeds like huskies will do better in cold weather than short-haired breeds like dachshunds. Your pet’s health also will affect how long the pet can stay out. Conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease and hormonal imbalances can compromise a pet’s ability to regulate body heat.

Consider dog sweaters during walks. When outside with your pets, watch them for signs of discomfort. If they whine, shiver, seem anxious, slow down or stop moving, or start to look for warm places to burrow, they’re saying they want to get back someplace warm.

Cool Connections, Inc. – Your Jacksonville, Florida HVAC Specialists

Do I Have Enough Home Insulation? Here Are Some Clues

Thu, 30 Nov 2017 13:53:00 GMT

Cool Connections, Inc. – Your Jacksonville, Florida HVAC Specialists

One of the best ways to reduce the energy consumption of your home and lower your heating and cooling costs is to have the proper amount of home insulation .

Homes that are well-insulated are more comfortable than those that aren’t. Insulation provides resistance to heat flow. The better your insulation is at resisting heat flow, the more energy and money you will save.

The efficiency of insulation is evaluated by it’s R-Value. Typically, state and local building codes require each building to have a minimum amount of insulating material. However, for further comfort in your home, you may want to exceed those minimum requirements. There are a few different ways to tell how much your home needs to be insulated. The easiest way is to visit the Energystar.gov website. This page will tell you the recommended R-Values for your location.

Apart from having a well-insulated house, there are a few different components to maintaining a comfortable home. They are:

Your home needs to be properly sealed. Homes with cracks or openings will allow air to enter and leave, thus wasting energy.
Your home needs to be properly ventilated. If your home is too well sealed, harmful microorganisms can get trapped inside and reduce your home’s air quality levels. Proper ventilation provides you with a way to recycle fresh air into your home.
Your home’s moisture levels need to be controlled. The proper control of your home’s moisture levels will increase the efficiency of your insulating and sealing efforts and improve energy efficiency.

Through the proper balance of insulation, sealing, moisture levels and ventilation, you can make your home much more comfortable and healthy.

Choosing a HVAC System – How do I choose?

Tue, 21 Nov 2017 16:31:00 GMT

Which type of HVAC System should I purchase? Cool Connections, Inc. – Jacksonville, Florida

Split Systems vs. Packaged

There are basically two types of AC/furnace units that are available: packaged and split. And the difference is just about as basic as the name. Both options are available for heat pumps, but you also have the option of supplementing that with a gas furnace as part of the same unit.

Packaged Systems

In a packaged system , everything’s in one place. All that’s needed is to hook it up to your duct system and it’s ready to go (not quite as easy as it sounds, but still not complicated). A package system ships with everything included and even the refrigerant is already charged.

But that simplicity has its downside as well. That “one place” where the package unit is installed is outdoors. That means it’s subjected to the elements and also makes for a warm shelter for critters. For this reason, these package units work for the Jacksonville Florida area because we do not experience a harsh winter like other areas in the United States.

Split Systems

For a split system, part of the unit can be indoors, usually in a basement, crawl space, or attic. Like packaged units , a split unit may be an air conditioner or a combination heating/cooling unit. The heating unit is often a gas-powered furnace.

Outdoors, you’ll find the compressor and condenser. The inside unit contains the air handling unit, heater, and filter. Because much of the system’s delicate electronics are sheltered indoors, it tends to last longer than package units. It also generally has a higher energy-efficiency rating.

Split systems are a bit more complex to install. They have to be connected to each other with pipework. Components are more dependent on proper installation and positioning, to make sure everything flows in the right direction. However, that’s more an issue with making sure you have a good contractor than with the system itself.

If you’re faced with issues with your current split or packaged unit, you’re usually better off sticking with what you already have. It’s not worth the expense of changing over. However, if you need to start from scratch, a split system is generally better, as long as you have the space for it.

When choosing a HVAC System there is such a variety of units available on the market now, which one should you choose?

Choosing the wrong type or size of HVAC System can lead to multiple problems. Be sure to consult with a professional HVAC company that employs NATE Certified technicians before choosing a system.

Three of the main choices in choosing a HVAC system would be the following:

Split vs Packaged Systems
Furnace vs Heat Pumps vs Duel Fuel for Heating
Ducts vs Ductless Systems

Furnace vs Heat Pumps vs Dual Fuel for Heating

Whether you use a split or a package unit, you can decide to install a furnace heater (usually fueled by gas or oil), an electric heat pump, or a dual fuel system.

A furnace heating system includes a separate component that burns gas or oil to heat the air. This is separate from the air conditioning unit, but it uses the same air ducts to distribute the air.

An electric heater is part of the same heat pump system that cools the air during the summer. A reversing valve simply switches the system from cooling to heating.

And a dual fuel system combines both systems. They can be programmed to automatically use one fuel system or the other at different optimal temperature levels.

In coastal or southern regions with more mild winters, like here in Jacksonville, Florida, heat pumps work fine. For locations that get extremely cold in winter, an oil or gas furnace or a dual fuel system will probably be the best option because electric heat pumps do not work as well at low temperatures.

Duct vs Ductless Systems

Ductless systems are HVAC systems that do not have ducts to distribute air. Instead, an outdoor unit condenses and cools a refrigerant, which is then connected by a relatively small line to an indoor unit. There are basically two types: Single-Zone Ductless Systems and Multi-Zone Ductless Systems .

These systems are often used in hotels and multi-unit buildings because of the ability to give individualized control to each unit. It’s also used in retrofitted older buildings with no space to install large air ducts.

Ductless systems are typically higher priced than traditional systems with air ducts. So, if individualized control or space is not an issue, an air duct system may make more sense.

Cool Connections, Inc. – Your Jacksonville, Florida HVAC Specialists

Home Heating Tips to Heat Cold Rooms

Thu, 16 Nov 2017 15:14:00 GMT

Replace the Air Filter

As dirt and debris make their way through your home’s heating system, the air filter that keeps it from being recirculated back into your home quickly gets clogged up. Check the filter each month and once it gets dirty, put it in a new one.

Before the winter season begins each year, it’s important to schedule an annual check-up by a certified technician. This will ensure the best efficiency possible.

Contact a Technician

Check the Registers

If air isn’t allowed to flow freely through your registers, it’ll be more difficult to heat cold rooms around your home. Check the registers to make sure they’re open and unblocked to allow proper air flow .

Have a cold room? As the colder months of the year take hold, it gets more difficult to keep your home warm. There are often rooms that stay cold no matter how long you run your primary heating equipment.

Today, we’re going to give you some tips that you can implement to help heat cold rooms by improving your system’s efficiency and airflow, along with a few alternative heating solutions.

If your home is heated via forced-air, attaching duct-booster fans to the registers will allow you to increase the airflow. This will heat your home faster and more efficiently.

Use Duct-Booster Fans

Install Solar Panels

The use of solar energy is a great way to lower energy usage and cut your monthly bills. The initial cost may scare you a bit, but the application of renewable energy that will last for at least a couple of decades is well worth the cost.

Install Radiant Floor Heating

Rather than rely on heated air from above, turn your attention to heated floors below. This type of heating is easy to install and can be used on various types of flooring, such as tile, laminate, and carpet.

Cool Connections, Inc. – Your Jacksonville, Florida HVAC Specialists

Heating System Odors – What’s that smell?

Tue, 07 Nov 2017 13:49:00 GMT

Electrical “ozone” Smell

This odor can indicate overheating as well as problems with motors, wiring, or electrical components. It can indicate the pending failure of a blower motor. Again, the system should be shut down and the problem fixed as soon as possible.

The odor of burning wires, plastic insulation, or other material inside the system could indicate overheating. The smell (and worse, the sight) of smoke could indicate severe overheating or even a fire. Shut the system off until the source of the odor is located by your HVAC professional.

Common Heating System Odors 

Smoke or Burning Smell

Burning Dust Smell

This odor is common when heating systems are first started after being idle over the summer. Dust that accumulates on system components could get hot when the system operates and cause this smell. It will usually stop within a few cycles of the heating system.

A home heating system in good condition will not only operate quietly and efficiently, it will also operate without producing any odors.

If you detect unusual odors coming from your heating system, don’t panic. Here is a brief description of common heating system odors you may encounter.

It is possible for small animals such as roof rats or squirrels to get into the heating system or ductwork and die, producing a carrion odor. The smell should go away once the dead animal is found and removed.

Dead Animal Smell

Cool Connections, Inc. – Your Jacksonville, Florida HVAC Specialists

Fall Back Daylight Saving HVAC System Checklist

Sun, 29 Oct 2017 23:07:00 GMT

HVAC System Checklist Item – Changing Your Thermostat Temperature

Unlike summer, chances are you’ll want the home warmer during the day and cooler at night. As you prepare to change from DST to standard time, set the thermostat for optimal energy savings.

Turning the temperature down at night helps you sleep better and save energy. While you’re home during the day, a setting of 68 degrees F is comfortable for most. You may also want to increase the daytime temperatures during the weekends when your family is at home.

Some types of programmable thermostats are fairly intuitive, but if yours isn’t, you may need to consult the owner’s manual to reset it. Most manufacturers provide online manuals if you’ve misplaced yours.

It’s also a good idea to change the batteries for the thermostat when you adjust the time for Daylight Saving Time. Without working batteries, the thermostat won’t be able to turn the HVAC system on. Most programmable thermostat covers are easy to take off by twisting or prying the covers off, or removing a few screws.

Fall Back: HVAC System Checklist For Daylight Savings

Daylight Saving Time (DST) ends November 5, 2017, which means it will be time to change the clocks and your programmable thermostat one hour back. It’s easier to remember how to set it by thinking about springing forward in the spring and falling back in the fall.

The original purpose of the time change was to save energy by reducing the amount of indoor lighting required in the summer. It has proved marginally successful for this purpose. There is a greater energy savings from installing a new efficient HVAC system, lighting grades, stricter building codes and energy-efficient appliances. Efforts to overturn DST have met with resistance because people enjoy longer daylight hours while the weather is comfortable outdoors.

HVAC System Checklist Item – Changing the Thermostat

Cool Connections, Inc. – Your Jacksonville, Florida HVAC Specialists

Decorating for Halloween? Tips for HVAC System Safety

Mon, 23 Oct 2017 16:53:00 GMT

Allow Air Flow Outside

Both your cooling system and your heating system need an unobstructed source of airflow. Vents provide part of it, but the outdoor unit also needs to have plenty of space around it to ensure that enough air is available. If you put too many decorations on or near the unit, they could impede airflow and cause issues with the HVAC system’s function. In the worst cases, blocked airflow can damage the unit.

The vents on the outdoor unit of your heating and cooling system need to be open so that air can move in or out as needed. If these vents are blocked by Halloween decorations, the system cannot get the airflow it needs, which reduces performance. Indoor decorations blocking vents and registers can prevent warm or cool air from leaving the ductwork.

Maintain Your HVAC System Safety when decorating for Halloween. When the cooler temperatures arrive in Jacksonville, FL they also bring along the ghosts and goblins of the Halloween season.

Halloween is one of the first year-end holidays that brings out the decorating spirit in people who usually decorate homes inside and out.

While Halloween decorating can be fun, getting into the spirit of the season shouldn’t compromise HVAC system safety. Here are some tips for keeping your HVAC system and your home safe when decorating this Halloween season:

Keep Vents Clear Indoors

Avoid Decorations Inside Your Unit

Spider webs–real ones–can cause problems with the internal components of the outdoor unit. In particular, they can interfere with electrical connections and cause circuit breakers to trip or, in the worse cases, cause components and circuit boards to burn out. Pieces from Halloween decorations that come loose and make their way inside the outdoor unit can have similar effects. Pieces of cotton from artificial webs, bits of cloth or paper from ghost decorations, or even whole decorations could cause problems with your HVAC system if they get inside the unit.

Cool Connections, Inc. – Your Jacksonville, Florida HVAC Specialists

Cool Connections, Inc. is a locally owned and operated business. We have thousands of customers and the experience for HVAC service, repair, and installations for furnaces, heat pumps, air conditioning (AC), and air quality systems. Be sure to Contact Cool Connections, Inc. in Jacksonville, Florida for all your air conditioning and heating needs. (904) 908-5252

Adding an Addition? It May Require an HVAC Upgrade

Wed, 11 Oct 2017 15:47:00 GMT

Extending Your Current System

If your current system can accommodate the additional load and isn’t more than 10 years old, then you may opt for an extension of the current system to provide the additional heating and cooling demands. If you choose to extend the system, you will have to add additional ductwork off the main system trunk. First you must have the ductwork evaluated to ensure that it has proper airflow, as well as proper insulation and is properly sealed. We would also recommend that you consider a zoning system so that the new space has its own programmable thermostat .

Even though the purchase of a brand new HVAC system is an additional expense, it may be your best option. If your current HVAC system has been in use for more than 10 years or it simply can’t handle the additional heating and cooling loads brought on by your home’s addition, an HVAC upgrade is an option you may have to take. If in doubt, contact us for an evaluation.

When Home Additions Require an HVAC Upgrade – Cool Connections, Inc. Jacksonville, FL

Adding an addition to your home or business? It may require an HVAC upgrade or extension. The construction of an addition on your home is not something to be taken lightly. There’s going to be a number of decisions you’ll need to make, ranging from the design specs all the way down to the color of the walls. You will also need to decide if upgrading your HVAC System will be necessary for your heating and cooling needs. You actually have a few options, which are listed below:

Upgrading Your HVAC

Installing an Independent System

One last option to consider is the installation of either a traditional forced-air or ductless mini-split for your home’s new addition independent of your primary HVAC system. This choice is typically made when the addition isn’t close enough to the current duct system’s main trunk. If you’re not well-versed on which type of independent system would be best for your home, we advise that you contact us for assistance.

Cool Connections, Inc. – Your Jacksonville, Florida HVAC Specialists

HVAC Airflow Can Affect Your System’s Efficiency

Tue, 03 Oct 2017 13:43:00 GMT

Resistance on Your HVAC System

When choosing a new unit, most people select one based on SEER rating. What they might not know is that these numbers do not factor in resistance from ductwork and registers. Even with a highly efficient unit, you might be losing a lot of potential from air restriction.

Recognizing Problems

Sometimes it can be hard to tell if you have an airflow problem, particularly if you live in an older house. Three main symptoms signify an issue, and they’re easy to spot. Learn More about proper system maintenance .

Cold or Hot Spots

Inconsistent airflow will cause certain areas of your house to be a different temperature than others. This is often more evident in homes with multiple stories.

Have you ever had a door close or open when your HVAC kicked on? Door movement, whistling sounds, and drafty areas are all signs that your pressure is off due to poor airflow.

Imbalances in Pressure

Keep registers and vents open at all times.

Do you think it’s important to close registers and vents in rooms that don’t necessarily need heating and cooling power? Don’t! Your equipment is designed to heat or cool a certain amount of space. Closing vents and registers alters this load.

If it feels as if your system is just barely blowing, it’s a sign that something is not right. Air should flow freely from each of the openings in your home.

Reduced Air at the Registers

The Costs of Reduced HVAC Airflow

The biggest potential problem associated with poor airflow is cost, both short and long-term. When your system has to work harder, it’ll be wasting more energy every day. Let’s say that your average monthly power bill is $200. If your unit is losing 10% efficiency due to air restrictions, you’re wasting $240 per year.

Poor HVAC Airflow Can Harm the System

Perhaps the biggest cost of poor airflow is the damage it does to your unit. Under extra strain, the compressor and other components in your HVAC are much more likely to fail. If this happens, you could be looking at thousands of dollars in repair or replacement costs – long before it should be time to swap your unit. When was the last time you have your ductwork cleaned ?

Poor HVAC Airflow Is Less Comfortable

If your system can’t properly circulate air, you’re going to have inconsistent temperatures. Some rooms can be several degrees warmer or cooler than others are. In some cases, the flow is so poor that you must take additional measures; many people will resort to window unit air conditioners or floor heaters to make up the difference. This wastes even more energy by adding another component into the mix and still overworking the HVAC.

Sometimes There Is Only One Solution

Unfortunately, sometimes the only solution for many homeowners is to replace the ductwork that is responsible for the problems. This switch is a big task, but it’s often well worth it. New ductwork will help increase the longevity of your equipment and help it perform the way the manufacturer intended.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Greater Jacksonville, Florida area about protecting their investment as well as energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). If you require maintenance on your HVAC system, contact us to schedule and appointment.

Cool Connections, Inc. – Your Jacksonville, Florida HVAC Specialists

What do you think the most overlooked component of a good HVAC system is – choosing an adequate location or picking the right thermostat? In many cases, it’s airflow. Without the ability to move air efficiently, your setup will be overworked and underutilized.

Make sure you start by improving the HVAC airflow of your equipment. Obstructed HVAC airflow can signal the death of efficiency and system performance. It makes your equipment work harder to heat or cool your home, putting a strain on critical components, reducing lifespan, raising bills and hindering home comfort.

Improving HVAC airflow is is usually not a hard thing to do. The trickiest part is remembering to do all of the things on this list and having your AC System maintained by a professional service. Here are our suggestions for improving airflow.

It’s Time to Change Your HVAC Air Filter – Jacksonville FL

Mon, 25 Sep 2017 16:50:00 GMT

Time to Change Your HVAC Air Filter

Dust and Debris Buildup 

The beginning of fall means it’s time to change your HVAC air filter before the heating season starts. If you haven’t turned on the heating element in your HVAC System since spring, you probably need to put in a new custom filter . Here are some important reasons for changing your air filter once fall begins.

Dust and debris can build up on your AC system filter, especially if it shares the same ductwork as your heating unit. Putting in a new HVAC filter removes this buildup and prevents it from being blown around your home, which would lower your indoor air quality. A new custom filter helps keep the air in your home clean and healthier to breathe. Read more about the importance of HVAC air filters.

Improved Efficiency

A dirty air filter means that your HVAC system has to work harder to cool or heat your home. This can end up causing damage that shortens the life span of your system. Changing air filters helps keep your HVAC system running as efficiently as possible. This has the added benefit of reducing your monthly energy bills, since your HVAC system uses less power overall.

When to Change Air Filters

How often do you need to change your HVAC air filter? This depends on certain factors, such as whether or not you have pets in your home. If you have pets, you should change your filter every month. If you don’t have pets, you should check your filter once a month and change it before it’s over-clogged with dust.

Reminders to Change Your HVAC Air Filter

It’s easy to forget to change your HVAC air filter, especially during summer. A quick way to remind yourself is to set a reminder on your phone, tablet, or online calendar, like Google Calendar , so you’ll remember. Another way to remember is to buy an extra filter and place it close to your HVAC system as a visual reminder. Consider adding a note on the filter with the date that it needs to be changed. Doing this will help you remember to check your air filter and replace it.

Cool Connections, Inc. – Your Jacksonville, Florida HVAC Specialists

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Greater Jacksonville, Florida area about protecting their investment as well as energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). If you require maintenance on your HVAC system, contact us to schedule and appointment.

Ways Rain or Flooding Could Affect Your AC System

Tue, 19 Sep 2017 14:34:00 GMT

HVAC System Rain Damage Affects:

Cool Connections, Inc. – Your Jacksonville, Florida HVAC Specialists

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Greater Jacksonville, Florida area about protecting their investment as well as energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). If you think you may have HVAC system rain damage, contact us to schedule and appointment.

The ways rain affects an HVAC system are mostly indirect. After all, the only outdoor portion of your heating/cooling system is the outside condenser coil and compressor unit of the air conditioner, typically situated just behind or to the side of the house. That component is designed and engineered resist normal rainfall. The remainder of the air conditioner and all of the furnace are indoors. Nevertheless, there are still some ways rain and or flooding affects an HVAC system. It’s a good idea to be aware of them if water-related issues occur.

Heavy rain can also inundate HVAC ductwork if it floods the crawl space under the house where system ductwork is often routed. Ductwork is typically not waterproof. Water entering the ducts may remain contained inside duct segments long after the flood itself has receded. This water will deteriorate ductwork as well as form an environment for toxic mold growth inside the ducts.

Roof leaks during rainfall can occur unnoticed in the attic for some time. Chronic leakage into the attic can seep into HVAC ductwork installed there. This ongoing moisture will rust and corrode ducts as well as trigger mold growth.

Rain leakage into the attic also saturates attic insulation , severely reducing its insulating properties. Insulation compromised by moisture allows increased heat transfer into and out of the attic and causes your furnace and air conditioner to run longer cycles to compensate.

Flooded Condenser Unit

While the outside half of the central air conditioner is rain-resistant, it’s not designed to be submerged in water. Localized flooding due to unusually heavy rains, like Jacksonville FL had recently with Hurricane Irma, can swamp residential areas with standing water causing HVAC system rain damage.

Generally speaking, if flood water exceeds a depth of 15 inches, it may damage internal electrical components including circuit boards and connectors inside the external condenser/compressor unit of the central A/C. Moving flood waters may also undermine the concrete pad on which the outdoor unit is mounted.

Wet Ductwork

Tips for Checking AC System Storm Damage

Thu, 14 Sep 2017 15:02:00 GMT

Hurricane Irma brought heavy flooding, structural damage and widespread power outages to Jacksonville, Florida and the surrounding cites and communities. As Hurricane Irma’s rains caused overflowing rivers, a storm surge, tree and structural damage, over a 100,000 utility customers lost power.

If Hurricane Irma has caused flooding, structural damage, a power surge or outage to your home, you’re likely eager to get your AC unit up and running once power is restored. But before you do, please follow a few safety tips before turning your AC System back on after AC System storm damage .

Before power is restored, the first thing you should do is turn your AC System off at the thermostat, then go to your electrical panel and turn the switch for the air conditioner to “off”.
Be sure there is no standing water submerging any part of your AC system, both inside and out side of your home or business.
Remove any debris from the area around your AC System .
Once power is restored, go to your electrical panel and turn the switch for the air conditioner to “on”. Then turn your AC System on at the thermostat.
If the breaker trips when you turn your AC unit on, turn your AC System off at the thermostat, then go to your electrical panel and turn the switch for the air conditioner to “off” and then back to “on.” This resets the external circuit breaker.
Now turn your AC System on at the thermostat. If the breaker trips again, call a professional AC repair company to have your HVAC System completely tested.

Cool Connections, Inc. – Your Jacksonville, Florida HVAC Specialists

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Greater Jacksonville, Florida area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).

If Hurricane Irma has caused AC System storm damage, please follow these few safety tips before turning your AC system back on. Your safety is our main concern. – Cool Connections, Inc.

Why Choose Cool Connections for a New AC System?

Tue, 05 Sep 2017 14:21:00 GMT

New AC System from Cool Connections, Inc.

We offer products such as heat pumps, air conditioners, air handlers as well as other air quality products. All the products we carry are designed built to withstand even the toughest environments.

We provide a line of air conditioning systems that work to keep you cool in the summer and heating systems keep you warm in the winter.

Cool Connections Inc. is Jacksonville’s go to HVAC service, sales, repair, and installation company. We are a family owned and operated HVAC company servicing Jacksonville and it’s surrounding areas employing only the best NATE certified technicians.

Why Choose Cool Connections for a New AC System?

We offer Trane Air Conditioners which are built to withstand the toughest elements and keep ticking.
We employ only the best NATE certified technicians. Learn more…
Financing is available for all our new AC Systems. Learn more…
We offer service agreements to keep your comfort system running at peak performance.

Cool Connections Provides:

Cooling Systems
Heat Pumps
Central Air Systems (Central Air Conditioning)
Heating Systems
Forced Air Furnaces
Heat Pumps
Hot Water Heating Systems and Boilers

Cool Connections has a full line of accessories that can improve your indoor air quality as well as the performance of your system. We install and service all major brands of heating and cooling systems, no matter where you bought it or who installed it.

Cool Connections, Inc. – Your Jacksonville, Florida HVAC Specialists

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Greater Jacksonville, Florida area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).

Should Replace Your Thermostat With a New AC System?

Mon, 28 Aug 2017 15:27:00 GMT

If you need a new air conditioner this summer, think beyond replacing your system. You might also want to consider getting a new thermostat while you’re at it. When you replace thermostat, you’ll have a better chance to make sure your new air conditioning system is running as efficiently as possible.

Your thermostat plays an important role in helping your air conditioner run when it should. Any problems with your thermostat can lead to your new ac system air running more often than it should or not running enough.

So what is the difference between Manual and Programmable Thermostats?

Manual thermostats still are popular because they are more familiar to most and typically are cheaper than electronic thermostats. Manual units come in two types: digital and mercury. The mercury variety uses a coil that will contract and expand with temperature changes. Many states and other government agencies are restricting or banning mercury use, however. Also, mercury, over time, can become un-calibrated and not respond accurately to temperature changes.

Either version of annual thermostats, as the name suggests, must be operated manually to change the temperature setting. Programmable electronic thermostats allow you to program temperature and time pre-sets into the unit’s memory. They can be programmed daily for those with uncertain schedules or for a five-day and weekend schedule.

Programmable thermostats can come with vacation overrides, which will keep temperatures at a minimal level if you will be gone for several days. Other features can include automatic switchover between heating and cooling, a keypad lock to prevent unwanted changes, battery indicators, seasonal automatic change-overs, and a filter change indicator. An energy monitor is a feature that keeps a record of how many hours your new ac system needed to be operating under your settings. This will allow you to see if you need to alter the settings to conserve more energy.

Electronic thermostats have proven they are a good way to reduce energy costs for homeowners. The issue is finding one with the features that will suit your individual needs.

Manual vs. Digital Thermostat

When you decide to replace thermostat with your air conditioner, keep in mind that you should make the switch to a digital thermostat. These thermostats have the settings needed to help newer air conditioners run efficiently. A manual thermostat might compromise your new air conditioner’s ability to cool your home while using less energy, since the settings aren’t as precise.

Greater Convenience

Another reason to replace thermostat with your air conditioning is that it’s easier to have both done at once rather than having them replaced at separate times. While you’re having your air conditioning replaced, technicians can take care of installing a brand new Trane thermostat and making sure that it works correctly. This can give you peace of mind that your air conditioner will run smoothly all summer long.

To learn more effective ideas to keep your Jacksonville Florida area cooler and improve your AC System efficiency, contact us at:

Cool Connections, Inc. – Your Jacksonville, Florida HVAC Specialists

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Greater Jacksonville, Florida area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).

Possible Reasons for Excessive Dust in Your Home

Mon, 21 Aug 2017 14:06:00 GMT

Leaky ductwork: When the ductwork that distributes your conditioned air isn’t airtight, all sorts of particles can get pulled into the HVAC system from unfinished spaces like the attic and wall cavities. This means that particles like bits of drywall, pest droppings, insect body parts, insulation fibers and similar debris gets sent out through the ductwork into your home every time the blower fan cycles on.
Inadequate filtration: If you use a thin fiberglass filter in your HVAC system, you might notice that it rarely looks dirty or needs replacement. This is a sure sign that the filter isn’t capturing the smaller particles that contribute to household dust like pollen, animal dander, skin cells, microscopic mites, bits of soil, paper/textile fibers and human and animal hair. Instead, these particles are bypassing the filter, getting into the air handler unit and being continually redistributed through your home.

The reason why your home gets dusty again too quickly may be due to specific issues with your HVAC system , such as:

Do you dust and vacuum your home frequently but cleaning up the dust never remedies the problem? Dust is a fact of life, and something your Jacksonville area home will never be completely rid of. Composed of dead skin cells, dirt, pollen, dander, clothing or carpet fibers and other small particulate, dust is continually being formed and settling on every horizontal surface it can find.

Giving your HVAC system some attention by taking the following steps can often help correct a problem with excessive dust.

Effective HVAC-Related Dust Remedies

Have an HVAC pro inspect the ductwork in your home to determine if there are significant leaks due to deficiencies and damage, like disconnected or crushed sections and holes or gaps, and have any such issues repaired.
Get your HVAC ductwork professionally sealed so debris from unconditioned areas can’t be drawn in.
Upgrade to a custom Cool Connections filter with the highest recommended MERV rating listed in your HVAC units owner’s manual.
Change your air filter . It should be checked once a month and replaced when there is any visible sign of dust accumulation.
Make sure that you install the air filter in the right direction and that it’s all the way into its slot, so air can’t be easily pulled in around it.

To learn more effective dust remedies to keep your Jacksonville Florida area home cleaner and improve your air quality, contact us at:

Cool Connections, Inc. – Your Jacksonville, Florida HVAC Specialists

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Greater Jacksonville, Florida area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).

Reducing Humidity in Your Jacksonville Florida Area Home

Mon, 14 Aug 2017 16:55:00 GMT

The best way to control humidity is to install a whole-house dehumidifier . Under most circumstances, your A/C performs that function adequately, but if you have an excessively moist home, it can be overwhelmed.

Learn how to reduce humid conditions with the following tips and maybe you’ll see results that will help you until you can plan for a dehumidifier.

Sequester plants. Having lots of plants in the home is a lovely way to decorate and to improve air quality, but plants also raise moisture levels. Round them up and move them to one room.
Keep your air filter clean. A dirty air filter won’t do as good a job allowing proper air flow into your HVAC system. Slower air flow can mean the system won’t dehumidify the air as effectively. Change the air filter frequently.
Take shorter showers. If you live with several people, long and frequent showering can up moisture in the air significantly. Ask people to take shorter showers. Crack the window and run a fan so the humidity can escape.
Install kitchen or bathroom ventilation. Ventilation exhaust fans are not expensive to purchase or install, and they do a a great job of removing moisture from bathrooms and around the kitchen range.
Fix leaks asap. As soon as you realize a faucet, a pipe, the attic or ceiling is leaking water, fix the leak so you prevent flooding and lower moisture levels. Also be vigilant about the HVAC’s condensate drain; a plugged drain can also boost air moisture.

Tips for Reducing Humidity

In our region, high humidity in the home can be a problem so reducing humidity in your Jacksonville Florida area home is a must. In summer when the air is warm, it will hold more moisture and make us feel warmer than we need to. That means turning the air conditioner down just to feel comfortable.

Any time of the year, high humidity can encourage the growth of mold, mildew and fungus, which can destroy paper, drywall, paint and other materials — plus, it’s unhealthful to breathe these pollutants.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Greater Jacksonville, Florida area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).

Cool Connections, Inc. – Your Jacksonville, Florida HVAC Specialists

Back to School Maintenance Tips for Your Home

Mon, 07 Aug 2017 17:45:00 GMT

Replace Your Air Filter

Typically, an air filter needs to be replaced every 1-3 months. If you’ve been neglecting it a little over the summer because you’ve been too busy soaking up the sun, now’s the time to get it switched out for a new one. This will ensure that your heating and air conditioning equipment continues to work at an optimal level.

Cooler temperatures will be here eventually, soon you’ll need to switch from air conditioning to heating. Before that happens, it’s essential that your ducts be checked for leaks and tears. This will keep the air circulating throughout your home without wasting energy.

Seal the Ducts

Buying the right supplies and recommended quantities are essential to making sure your student begins the school year ready to achieve educational excellence. For the 2017-2018 school year, here is a link to a supply list to better prepare students for their first day of school. Also, you need to think about the back to school list to keep your HVAC System working properly. Here are some things you should consider doing.

Over the summer, leaves and dirt can collect around your system’s outdoor unit. This can create a clogging situation, which can be a detriment to your heating and cooling efforts. This is an easy fix. All you have to do is remove any debris around the unit. Using a water hose is even more effective.

Pick Up Around the Outdoor Unit

Once a year, it’s important that you enlist the help of a professional to make sure that your heating system is running properly. An annual maintenance Precision Tune-up will not only keep your equipment efficient, but can also prolong its operational life.

Perform Annual Maintenance

Clean the Condensate Drain

Your HVAC unit’s condensate drain can quickly become clogged with mold, algae, and other foreign substances. This can be cleaned by a water and bleach mixture two or three times a year to prevent any bigger issues from developing.

For more expert advice on back to school maintenance tips or any other home comfort questions, please don’t hesitate to contact the NATE Certified professionals at:

Cool Connections, Inc. – Your Jacksonville, Florida HVAC Specialists

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Greater Jacksonville, Florida area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).

Ceiling Fans and Energy Efficiency In Your Home

Tue, 01 Aug 2017 17:29:00 GMT

Why Ceiling Fans Affect Your Home Energy Efficiency

A Little Help for Your Air Conditioner

On days that aren’t too hot, stick to using your ceiling fans for as long as you can before turning on your air conditioner. Once you do turn on the A/C, don’t turn off the ceiling fan. A ceiling fan can make you feel around 4 to 5 degrees cooler, allowing you to raise your air conditioner’s thermostat temperature by the same amount with no loss of comfort.

For every degree you raise your A/C thermostat temperature, you can cut your cooling bills about 3 to 10 percent. Make sure the fan blades are set to spin counterclockwise as seen from below. Spinning in this direction, creates a cooling breeze downward over your skin. If the blades aren’t set correctly, look for a small switch on the motor housing to change the direction of the blades.

When the cooler winter weather moves in, set your fan blades to spin clockwise and run the fan on the lowest speed. When spinning this way, the blades create an updraft that pulls cool air from the lower part of the room toward the ceiling. This air pushes the warm air near the ceiling out towards the walls and down to where you are. The warm air in your room will circulate around you rather than pooling near the ceiling.

Comfort in Winter, Too

In a Jacksonville Florida’s warm climate, your ceiling fan can do a lot to help you stay comfortable efficiently. To get the most out of your fan, keep these tips in mind:

Fans make you feel more comfortable, but they don’t change the air temperature so they don’t help when you’re not in the room. To save energy, be sure to turn off the fan when you leave the room.

Also, to move air efficiently, your fan must be the right size for the room. For a room of less than 145 sq. ft., a 42-inch fan is enough. For a room size of up to 230 sq. ft., select a 50-inch fan.

Maximizing Your Fan’s Efficiency

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Greater Jacksonville, Florida area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).

Cool Connections, Inc. – Your Jacksonville, Florida HVAC Specialists

How to Get the Most Out of Your HVAC System

Thu, 27 Jul 2017 16:11:00 GMT

Jacksonville Florida has a challenging summer climate, which can cause your HVAC System to run up high cooling bills if you don’t plan ahead. With a few simple steps, though, you can help your HVAC system perform more effectively and efficiently.

As an A/C system ages or if it isn’t well maintained, a lot can go wrong. Following are warning signs that indicate your AC system is failing to keep up and you need and energy audit, AC repair or it needs to be replaced.

Invest in an Energy Audit

Your HVAC System / air conditioner will have a hard time keeping you comfortable if all the cooling it provides is quickly lost through your walls and ceilings. Areas with insufficient insulation and air leaks around the windows, doors, utility line penetrations, and other areas waste energy, forcing your system to work harder and use more energy to maintain the temperatures you want.

During an energy audit, your technician will bring in equipment to zero in on points of energy loss so you’ll know where to invest in improvements. For example, using an infrared camera, your technician may discover you’re losing energy through the roof. You’ll then know to air seal the attic and add more insulation.

Keep up on Maintenance

During just one season, your furnace or air condition sustain minor wear and tear issues that have a major effect on their efficiency. Loose wires and corroded contacts increase electrical resistance, dust on the indoor evaporator coil makes it harder for the coil to cool passing air, and incorrect motor voltage and amp draw can cause excessive energy use.

As part of Cool Connections 20-point Central Air inspection , our technicians will find and recommend fixes to problems to keep your HVAC System at maximum efficiency and prevent sudden breakdowns.

If your HVAC System / air conditioner is more than 10 years old, it’s nearing the end of its life expectancy. With each passing year, HVAC equipment drops in efficiency and newly manufactured models are more efficient that older models were even when they were new. Upgrading to new, Energy Star qualified models could cut your heating and cooling bills by up to 20 percent, assuming the system is correctly sized and installed.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Greater Jacksonville, Florida area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).

Upgrade Your System

Uncover The Myths and Facts About Saving Energy

Tue, 18 Jul 2017 16:50:00 GMT

If you’re looking for ways to lower your household operating cost by saving energy, lowering your electricity consumption is a good place to start.

Before you implement any tips for reducing consumption, it’s good to recognize energy myths like these:

Myth: Run the Ceiling Fans to Make Your Home Cooler

Fact: Fans simply move air, they don’t cool it. The feeling of air moving across the skin makes a body feel cooler, but you can’t feel the effect unless you’re in the same room. So, running fans in unoccupied rooms wastes energy instead of saving it.

Myth: Dial Back the Thermostat Setting to Cool the House Faster

Fact: Your cooling system runs at a steady pace to reach the thermostat’s temperature setting, no matter how low it’s set. If you set it too low, you’ll only end up wasting energy and your home will feel uncomfortably chilly.

Myth: Shut the Registers in Seldom-Used Rooms to Save Conditioned Air

Fact: Your HVAC system relies on balanced airflow to operate efficiently, and shutting some registers can upset the balance and cause a pressure increase within the system. The equipment then has to work harder to compensate, so it consumes more energy instead of less.

Myth: Leave the Thermostat Temperature Setting Constant to Save Energy

Fact: There’s a misconception that raising the thermostat setting at night or when no one is home is inefficient because it takes a lot of energy to bring the temperature back down again. Regular temperature setbacks of eight hours or more during such periods are a proven way to save energy, and it’s easy to accomplish with a programmable thermostat .

Myth: Use Sleep Mode to Reduce Your Computers’ Energy Consumption

Fact: If your computers are set to go into sleep mode whenever they’re not in use, you’re wasting energy. Sleep mode is fine for short periods, but you should put your computers on power strips and shut them down completely during longer periods while you’re at work and overnight while you’re sleeping.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Greater Jacksonville, Florida area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).

The Importance of HVAC Air Filters

Mon, 10 Jul 2017 13:52:00 GMT

It’s all about the air filters when it comes to the efficiency and longevity of your cooling system! Well maybe not everything BUT, regular replacement of your air filters can go a long ways to keeping you cool in the summer.

Imagine all of a sudden your air conditioner just doesn’t seem to be cooling like it used to! Before calling an HVAC contractor… check your air filters.

Clogged, plugged and otherwise dirty air filters could be the problem especially if you have not changed them in a while. If so, change them out and see what happens. Keep in mind that failure to change air filters regularly could result in damage to your HVAC system.

Cool Connection’s goal is to make it easy for you to get custom cut and fitted air conditioning and furnace filters, at a lower price, without any hassles. Our made to order ac filters are durable, sturdy, and meet or exceeds the industry’s standards. Over the years we have gained hundreds of happy, grateful and satisfied customers. We honestly feel we have the best customers a company could possibly have. So Cool Connections wants your satisfaction to always comes first, we are very committed to service, making sure you get the right size air conditioning filters as soon as possible.

Our filters and filter media pads are not only used for general HVAC usage but you will find them used everywhere. Some of our customers: animal hospitals, medical centers, newspaper facilities, dentist offices, bakeries, restaurants, jewelers, condos, art galleries, marine air, clean rooms for electronics and equipment repairs, churches, temples, coastguard, seafood houses, cabinet shops, spray booths, aquariums, wine cellars, yachts. Some other uses our customers have had for our media pads and filters: car filters, traffic signal cabinets, radio stations transmitter cabinets, aquarium filtration, ductwork for wine coolers, electric motor casings, computer towers/racks/enclosures just to name a few. And we can also cut media pads to any shape and size. Just contact us for a quote on your size.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Greater Jacksonville, Florida area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).

Should I shut rooms off to save energy?

Wed, 28 Jun 2017 16:35:00 GMT

Save energy. When you’re looking for effective ways to reduce your household utility bills, don’t get taken in by the myth that shutting the air vents in unused rooms saves energy.

The truth is, shutting a room won’t lower your energy consumption, and it can cause some serious issues in your home such as:

A decline in air output. When some vents are closed, airflow gets restricted in the ducts and pressure increases in the HVAC system. If you have a standard blower with one speed, the fan slows down as the pressure rises, so conditioned air output drops at the open registers.
Possible compressor failure. When system airflow slows down, ice will start to build up on the cooling coil of your A/C or heat pump. Coil icing can cause the compressor to overheat and eventually fail, which means you’ll have to replace your HVAC system’s most costly component.
More duct leakage. Higher system pressure and airflow restrictions can make any unsealed ductwork leaks worse and even create new ones. The loss of conditioned air makes it harder to maintain comfort and increases your energy costs
Lost energy savings. If you upgraded to a system with a variable-speed air handler, its electronically computated motor speeds up in response to a system pressure increase. Since it’s using more energy, you lose the savings you’d expect to gain with variable-speed equipment.

Zoning: A Better Energy-Saving Alternative

Having your HVAC professional install a zoning system is a better way to control your energy use in different areas of your home. Independent heating and cooling zones are created with motorized dampers in the ductwork and dedicated programmable thermostats. The equipment is then connected to one central panel where you program in your desired comfort settings for the entire house.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Greater Jacksonville, Florida area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).

Is Your AC System Failing to Keep Up?

Tue, 13 Jun 2017 15:01:00 GMT

Vapor compression, electrical, water drainage, computer technology and air quality — your air conditioner utilizes and links together an array of mechanics and properties to cool your home.

As an A/C system ages or if it isn’t well maintained, a lot can go wrong. Following are warning signs that indicate your AC system is failing to keep up and you need AC repair or it needs to be replaced.

Strange Noises

With a compressor, blower motor and airflow, air conditioners make noise — some more than others. If you hear any of these unusual noises, your A/C system needs immediate attention:

Droning: Laborious droning and whirring noises from your outdoor unit indicate significant compressor problems.
Grinding: Grinding and screeching noises from the indoor air handler or outdoor unit are telltale signs of a failing blower motor.
Clicking: If your A/C system won’t turn on and makes a rapid clicking noise, you have electrical problems to contend with.
Duct noises: Rattling, clamoring, whooshing and even banging noises from the air vents are usually caused by problems with ductwork design. Take care of duct problems before they affect your A/C system.

Too Many Repairs

When you’re uncomfortable, there’s no such thing as a small A/C repair. However, if your A/C has needed frequent repairs in recent years, you may be better off upgrading to a new A/C unit with a warranty. Talk to your A/C technician about lifetime costs of different A/C models. The lifetime cost is your estimated investment for the A/C purchase, installation, energy usage and maintenance from day one to the end of its useful service life.

Poor Performance, High Energy Bills

With so many interlinking systems, one unresolved A/C problem often causes another… and another. For example, an old compressor may cause ice to accumulate on the evaporator. Leaky air ducts make your A/C work harder. In both instances, your home comfort suffers, energy bills increase and other A/C parts may begin to fail. Sooner or later, you’ll need to replace your A/C system. Start planning your new system by working with reputable HVAC professionals at Cool Connections, Inc.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Greater Jacksonville, Florida area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).

Five Simple Ways to Thank a Veteran

Fri, 26 May 2017 19:41:00 GMT

Five Simple Ways to Thank a Veteran

Say Thank You – Just the simple act of saying “Thank you for your service” goes a long way with veterans. Throw in a handshake too, you’re bound to see a smile on their face, which will make it all worth it.
Volunteer – Do something for the veterans in your community. Seriously, what’s an hour of your time for the sacrifices they’ve made? Check out uso.org for ways that you can help. At the least, drop off an anonymous letter at your local VA thanking a veteran; it will get to the right person.
Donate – Make a small donation today to any of the fantastic organizations out there that help veterans each and every day. There are many great charities to contribute to like the Disabled American Veterans .
Pay for Lunch – Just walk up and say “I appreciate what you are doing, this one’s on me.” Offer to pay for a veteran’s meal today.
Never Forget – One of the biggest things you can do is to make the most out of the opportunity you’ve been given. Our freedoms have been paved with the sacrifices of our soldiers and they did so for all of us to enjoy this great country; let’s not forget that or take it for granted.

A veteran is someone who at one point in their life, wrote a blank check payable to the United States of America for an amount up to and including their life. Regardless of personal political views, that is an honor and there are too many people in this country who no longer remember that fact.

Prepare for Spring Storms

Mon, 01 May 2017 18:03:00 GMT

Flooding

While Jacksonville rarely sees tornadoes, we can get heavy rains that could cause flooding. If you’re new to the area, or even if you’ve resided here longer and aren’t real sure about potential flooding in your neighborhood, it bears checking it out by researching government websites to discover flood-prone areas.

If a thunderstorm is approaching, avoid going out of doors as long as you can hear thunder. If you hear thunder, you’re within striking distance of lightning. Also, unplug your major electric appliances, including the air conditioner, to avoid damage in a power surge.

If you suspect your home is subject to flooding, have a plan for evacuation in times of heavy rainfall. Keep the car gassed, and some survival supplies on hand. Make sure you have flood insurance — your regular insurance will not cover flooding from natural causes — well in advance of any storm.

Also, if you live in a flood-prone area, make sure that your air conditioner compressor is located in an elevated area, as much as possible, to avoid damage from high waters.

Power outages

It’s always possible the power could go off from high winds, ice on power lines or lightning strikes, so be prepared. Have at least a three-day supply of food, water, pet food and essential medicines on hand. Keep blankets and warm clothing handy, as well as a good supply of batteries and a battery-powered lantern, flashlight and weather radio. A backup generator will allow you to have the minimum electrical conveniences needed to stay comfortable and safe.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Greater Jacksonville, Florida area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).

Although Jacksonville is blessed with relatively mild weather, residents shouldn’t necessarily be complacent. In springtime, we can still get some stormy wind, as well as some strong rain that could lead to flooding. Just to be on the safe side, why not review the following tips for storm prep this season? You’ll be ahead of the game, and ready for anything Mother Nature deals out.

What to Consider Before a Home Addition

Mon, 17 Apr 2017 13:52:00 GMT

Considering a Home Addition?

Value, Budget, and Financing

Building an addition to your home is a costly undertaking, so make sure that the space you’re adding will truly serve your needs and also check on real estate values in your area to be sure it’s a wise investment for where your home is located. Then, ensure that the proposed project fits within your budget, and plan how you’ll obtain financing if necessary.

Layout and Design

Work with an architect, designer or licensed contractor to create a layout that best fits your needs and incorporates all the desired features and amenities you are looking for. While the interior details are critically important, it’s also essential that the finished addition matches the style and aesthetic of your home’s exterior.

Heating and Cooling

Talk to an experienced HVAC contractor to determine the best way to heat and cool the living space you plan to add. A knowledgeable HVAC pro can assess your existing system and advise you if your current equipment has enough capacity, if the ductwork can be extended, or whether you’ll need to upgrade the components or install ductless units to serve the addition.

Electrical and Plumbing

You should consult licensed professionals about how the addition can be integrated into your home’s plumbing and electrical systems. You need to know whether there’s enough capacity to add extra breakers in your electrical panel, or how extending the plumbing system to serve new fixtures will impact water heating and water pressure throughout your home.

Who you hire directly affects the success of your addition project, whether everything goes smoothly and if you experience future problems. Make sure that each contractor you choose is well-established with a good reputation, fully licensed and properly insured.

If you’re planning a new home addition and need HVAC services contact the Jacksonville Florida comfort pros at Cool Connections, Inc.

Choosing Contractors

A home addition can give you the extra living space your family needs, increase your comfort and add to the enjoyment of your home.

Whether you’re thinking of adding a new kitchen or family room, another bathroom or more bedrooms, there are a number of key factors to consider before you get the project started.

Why Is My Air Conditioner Freezing Up?

Thu, 30 Mar 2017 17:13:00 GMT

Air Conditioner Freezing Up?

Not Enough Air Flow

One reason for your air conditioner freezing up is that the airflow going into or out of your system is blocked. Your air conditioner operates on the premise that free flowing air passes through the system and is cooled by the unit. The cooled air is then blown throughout your home.

There are several ways the air flow may be blocked to your AC unit. An intake register may be blocked, preventing the intake of air into your system. Your ductwork may need cleaning, a dirty ductwork can prevent air from flowing through the ducts properly. Check your AC filter . If a filter is extremely clogged, it will prevent air from properly flowing through the intake register. Check the central air intake register and make sure that air is efficiently flowing into your system. Replace or clean your AC filter if necessary. Check and clear all possible blockages to air flow. Once your AC unit has defrosted, turn the unit on and monitor the system to be sure it does not freeze up again.

Refrigerant Level Low

Another reason your air conditioner may be freezing up is that the unit is low on refrigerant. Refrigerant is necessary to cool the air and keep your home comfortable. Sometimes, the AC system’s lines may develop a leak and refrigerant may leak. One symptom that may cause air conditioner freezing up is from low refrigerant levels. Our HVAC technician will check the refrigerant levels during a regular maintenance tune-up. However, if your system is leaking refrigerant, the technician will also determine why. The technician will locate and repair any leaks in the refrigerant lines.

Regular Maintenance

The best way to ensure that your AC system does not freeze is to have your unit regularly tuned up by a qualified AC repair specialist. Cool Connections, Inc. provides regular maintenance tune-ups and AC repair for homeowners in the Jacksonville, FL area. With regular maintenance you will prevent small problems from becoming big problems and ensure optimal performance of your air conditioning system. We also offer annual service agreements, which can reduce the cost of a Performance Tune-Up. Regular maintenance will provide longer lasting equipment, reduce utility bills and repairs, provide a more comfortable indoor environment and most of all, protect your investment.

With HVAC System Maintenance our NATE Certified technicians will inspect and tune your system to ensure that your refrigerant level is sufficient and the air flow is optimal, keeping your home cool and your unit working well.

Cool Connections, Inc. is a locally owned and operated business. We have thousands of customers and the experience for HVAC service, repair and installations for furnaces, heat pumps, air conditioning (AC), and air quality systems. Be sure to Contact Cool Connections, Inc. in Jacksonville, Florida for all your air conditioning and heating needs. (904) 908-5252

One of the strangest sights you may ever see is the coils on an air conditioner covered in ice on a hot day. Many homeowners in Jacksonville, FL have experienced this problem with their AC unit. This phenomenon is known as “air conditioner freeze-up” and the problem may occur for several reasons.

Fortunately, if you call Cool Connections, Inc. for AC repair as soon as you notice ice or frost on your AC unit, you can resolve the situation and save dollars and the frustrations of future AC repair costs.

The first thing you should do if you notice ice on your AC unit is to turn the unit off. Keep the unit off for a few hours and allow the unit to completely defrost. Once your unit has thawed out, check a few things with your system to ensure that your unit is getting the inflow of air that it requires.

Allergies and Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)

Thu, 23 Mar 2017 13:24:00 GMT

Allergies and Indoor Air Quality – Have you noticed the spring pollen? Typically spring yields the highest pollen levels, when plants, grasses, and trees are flowering, particularly in the early mornings.

Warm, dry, and windy weather and climates with little or no rain have high pollen levels. Rain or cool weather dramatically drops allergy levels. However, many plants pollinate year round so you could experience allergy symptoms year round. Pollen is not the only concern with indoor air quality.

Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) is defined as the conditions that make up the indoor environment of a home, including temperature, humidity, purity, and freshness. Most people are now aware that indoor air quality (IAQ) is an issue of growing concern.

If your HVAC System was not properly installed, or properly maintained and operated, components within the system may become contaminated with particles of dust, pollen or other debris.

If moisture is present, the potential for microbiological growth (e.g., mold) is increased and spores from such growth may be released into the home’s living space. Some of these contaminants may cause allergic reactions or other symptoms in people if they are exposed to them.

Understanding the negative impact of improper humidity control, inadequate ventilation, and the health effects of indoor air that can be 100 times more polluted than outside air is of vital importance. If you can answer yes to any of the questions below, call or contact us today to schedule air duct cleaning or if you have questions regarding our heating and air conditioning services.We’ll be more than happy to assist you!

Questions you should ask concerning indoor air quality in your home or business.

Are there any areas that are too warm or too cold?
Does anyone suffer from asthma or allergies?
Does the home get too muggy or too dry at certain times of the year?
Do you ever turn on the fan(s) to circulate the air?
Do you have an abundance of dust in your home?
Do you have high utility bills?

How we are different from other AC Companies:

We pull and clean the evaporator coil (acid wash coil and re-install, braise lines and pull proper vacuum).
We pull and clean blower assembly, check balance of wheel and check all wiring.
Apply a microbiocide treatment of air handler and cabinet.
Fog duct system with micro biocide treatment.
Clean all wiring.
Blow out condensate line and treat with condensate pan tables which help in decreasing algae build up.

We always pull the evaporator coil to clean it on an IAQ package. Some other companies pull the coil only if it is heavily soiled. We feel that no matter how dirty it is–it can be cleaned better when pulled.

Cool Connections, Inc. is a locally owned and operated business. We have thousands of customers and the experience for HVAC service, repair and installations for furnaces, heat pumps, air conditioning (AC), and air quality systems. Contact us at Cool Connections, Inc. in the Jacksonville, Florida area for all your air conditioning and heating needs. (904) 908-5252

If you decide to have your heating and cooling system cleaned, it is important to make sure the service provider agrees to clean all components of the system and is qualified to do so. Also good air filters can prolong the life of HVAC systems by keeping the coil and air handler clean and free of debris. Humidity control can also prevent costly damage to wood floors and the expenses associated with mold remediation. Investing in a high-capacity dehumidifier is also a cost-saving measure because it can outlast and cost less to run than most portable units.

Why System Maintenance is Important.

Tue, 14 Mar 2017 13:14:00 GMT

Numerous homeowners tragically assume that their heating and cooling unit is ready to go and doesn’t need any care after being installed. They treat their units with an “out of the picture, therefore irrelevant” state of mind until there’s an issue, and after that they call a heating and cooling specialists to settle the issue, not understanding that numerous AC issues are preventable if proper maintenance is completed.

Having regular system maintenance performed on your HVAC system is extraordinarily essential. Keeping up your system will help extend the life of your AC system, bring down energy costs, make your system more efficient, and keep little issues from transforming into tremendous issues that require expensive repairs. An air conditioner’s filters, coils, and fins require regular maintenance for the unit to function effectively and efficiently throughout its years of service. According the to Energy.gov – “Neglecting necessary maintenance ensures a steady decline in air conditioning performance while energy use steadily increases.” Look at how each of these elements below is influenced by regular AC upkeep.

Lengthen the Life of Your Air Conditioner

Without general upkeep, an AC system loses around 5% of its effectiveness every year. That implies each year that you don’t have your unit adjusted, you’re spending more cash to have your unit work less proficiently. Consistent system maintenance will permit AC technicians to find and settle any minor issues rapidly, keeping your AC unit running at its ideal performance. At the point when little issues are nipped from the get-go, they tend not to transform into huge issues, which brings about a better working HVAC system that will last much longer.

Bring down Energy Costs

Basically, the better condition your unit is in, the better it will work. Consider when you first got your new heating and cooling unit. It most likely worked much better than your old unit, and it presumably cost significantly less to keep it running too. Doing proper maintenance on your AC system will keep it running right without it working too difficult to pump out cold air. This saves energy and brings down your energy cost.

Increase the Efficiency of Your HVAC System

System maintenance goes hand-in-hand with bringing down your energy costs. The less hindrances between your system’s ultimate working condition, the better it will work. At the point when minor issues are found and settled, your HVAC System can work to its fullest capacities, expanding system effectiveness and bring down your electric bill while cooling your home all the more successfully.

Little issues are commonly found amid consistent upkeep checks, and they can for the most part be settled quickly and affordably. On the off chance that little issues go unnoticed or are overlooked, they will probably transform into significantly bigger issues that require broad repairs or even total system replacement.

As should be obvious, after the points made in this article, having standard support done on your heating and cooling unit can only help you. To plan a time for a heating and cooling system check for your HVAC system, contact us today.

Avoid Extensive Repair Costs

Ceiling Fans & AC Systems

Thu, 02 Mar 2017 23:47:00 GMT

Can you remember a time when your home didn’t have an air conditioning system? If you live in Florida, and you’re under the age of 50, probably not. Thanks to Willis Carrier, who secured a patent for his “Apparatus for Treating Air” in 1902, air conditioners have been a staple in American homes since the late 1960s. Today’s models, due to standards set by the Energy Department in 1992, are more efficient, quiet and use about 50 percent less energy than earlier air conditioning systems. Even so, you probably still spend quite a bit on your electric bill each month to keep your home comfortable and would love to save more money, yes?

Fan or No Fan

It’s not uncommon to find fans in nearly every room of Florida homes and apartments. But, are they really necessary anymore, and more importantly, do they actually save you money? The answer may not be as black and white as it may seem.

If you’ve read “ 5 AC Mistakes to Avoid ,” you know that fans do not cool rooms, they cool people. So technically, fans aren’t really reducing the temperature in your home. They may, however, help reduce your energy bill if you do the following while running your fans:

Increase your thermostat by at least 10 degrees in the summer (this can reduce your bill by about 10%)
Turn off fans when you leave a room
Adjust fan rotation per season – In the summer, use high speed in a counterclockwise (air pushing down) motion. For winter months, set to low speed in a clockwise (pushing air upward) motion.

How Much Can I Save?

Although you may be able to reduce your electric bill by using ceiling fans, you might not actually be saving any money. To explain this, we’ll need to do a little math.

Let’s assume you purchase four (4) mid-range fans at $150 each. That’s an investment of $600 (not including tax). Next, we’ll take an average electric bill for a 1200 square foot home in Jacksonville, Florida; that’s around $250. If you raise your thermostat the suggested 10 degrees while using fans, you’ll save approximately 10 percent off that bill per month – or $25. To determine how long it will take for you to pay off your initial investment of $600, divide by $25, which is 24 months (2 years).

Seems pretty good, right? Not so fast. Now, you’ll need to factor in how much it takes to run the fans. We’ll assume that at least half of the fans are running at some point throughout the day. On average, the cost per Kilowatt hour in Florida is $.11 , so your monthly cost is around $19.27 for all fans. Deduct that from your $25 monthly savings and it’s now only $5.30 saved per month. When you divide the $600 by that amount, those two years now stretch to 9.43 years before you’ll actually see any real savings from your fans.

Does this mean you shouldn’t use your fans? No. We are simply pointing out that you should be realistic on how much of an impact ceiling fans will have on your overall savings. The best way to ensure your energy bill is as low as possible is to install an energy-efficient air conditioning system and keep it maintained with bi-annual tune-ups to ensure it runs at peak performance for many years to come.

For AC installations and tune-ups in the North Florida area, contact Cool Connections at (904) 908-5252 . Our friendly, professional staff is ready to help.

It’s important to use high-performance, energy-efficient models to get the best results. You should also make sure your fan blades are set to an angle of 12 degrees or higher; anything less isn’t really going to make a difference.

5 Home Energy Myths Debunked

Tue, 24 Jan 2017 20:44:00 GMT

If you’re like most homeowners, you’re always looking for ways to cut your costs around your home. In fact, you may have even googled “how to lower energy bills” at some point. With over 3.75 million results, however, it may be difficult to determine which advice is good and which may be a bit misleading. We totally understand your frustration. That’s why we’ve chosen five of the most common energy myths and debunked them for you.

#1 Most Heat is Lost Through Your Windows

False! Although a small portion of your energy bills may be seeping out of improperly sealed windows, it’s your walls that end up costing you the most in lost heating bills. Think about it; your walls have the largest surface area in your home, so there are more opportunities for heat to escape. Before replacing your windows, get your walls and attic insulated for the best return on your investment.

#2 Keep the Computer On to Save Money

Wrong. It’s a common misconception that it takes a lot of energy to power on your laptop or desktop computer. In fact, it wastes more energy by leaving your computer on all the time, even when it’s in sleep mode. Here’s the rule of thumb to follow if you truly want to save money: (1) use sleep mode on for short periods when you are not actively on your computer, and (2) turn it off when you go to sleep or won’t be on it for at least an hour or longer.

#3 Handwashing Dishes is Cheaper

Not likely. In general, handwashing your dishes will use more hot water than a dishwasher, which will cost you more money. Why? The newer dishwashers are energy efficient. If you have a much older model, however, it could be a toss-up. To ensure you are saving money either way, follow these tips:

#4 Setting Your Thermostat Higher Will Warm a Room Faster

Not even close! If you want a room to warm up or cool down quicker, set it to the temperature you want to reach. Don’t raise it to 80 if 75 degrees is comfortable for you. And, likewise, don’t drop the setting to 60 degrees if you typically prefer it to be around 70. Moving your setting past the intended temperature doesn’t get it there any faster, but it could cost you more money. Most people forget to check until the room is too cool or too warm. By that time, you’ve already wasted energy. To avoid this, and to potentially save up to $180 a year in energy costs , consider installing a programmable thermostat .

Guess again! If you have a teenager or college student at home, you’ve probably come across a few wall chargers plugged into the wall but nothing attached at the other end, right? Did you know those little “energy vampires” are still sucking up electricity and running up your bill? According to Energy.gov , phone chargers not only consume .26 watts of energy when left plugged in without a phone, but also 2.24 watts of power when a fully charged phone is still attached. Leaving chargers in outlets when not in use can even raise your monthly utility bill by as much as 10 percent.

For help with making your North Florida home more energy efficient, contact Cool Connections today at (904) 908-5252 or visit our website for more information.

#5 Wall Chargers Don’t Use Energy When Unplugged from Items

Handwashing

Don’t leave the water running. Fill the sink with hot water and use it for all dishes
Use small amounts of soap to decrease suds and the need to rinse for long periods
Consider wiping off your dishes and not rinsing at all

Dishwasher

Only run the dishwasher when it’s full
Don’t use the pre-rinse cycle (it wastes up to 20 gallons per load!)
Let your dishes air dry instead of using the heat cycle

5 AC Mistakes to Avoid

Wed, 11 Jan 2017 00:23:00 GMT

In Florida, an air conditioner is not a convenience, it’s a necessity. For the majority of the year, we deal with some pretty warm temperatures, so a well-maintained, functioning ac unit is essential in keeping our homes comfortable. Many people, however, make some simple errors that can easily lead to an AC meltdown. If you don’t want to find yourself sweating up a storm (or fighting off the chilly temps this winter), here are the five most common AC mistakes to avoid.

Improper Thermostat Settings

Coming home to a hot (or cold) house after a long day at work is never fun, but don’t make the mistake of turning your thermostat way down (or up) in an effort to reach your desired climate setting. If you prefer your room temperature around 75 degrees, turning it down to 65 degrees won’t get it there any faster. In fact, you are doing more harm than good; your air conditioner will have to work harder and you’re wasting money. Every degree equates to approximately 7% increase in consumption, so shooting for 65 when you only need it to reach 75 can add as much as 70% more in consumption costs to your bill. You can actually save money in the summer by setting your thermostat higher. In the winter, lower your thermostat to keep your energy bill from getting too high.

Not Using Ceiling Fans

Most people don’t realize that fans do not cool rooms – they cool people. This is particularly beneficial to your air conditioner because fans can help move the cool air throughout your home, which reduces wear and tear on your AC unit. In addition, the air movement creates a breeze-like effect that can make you feel cooler in warmer rooms, which saves you money. So turn up the thermostat and turn on those ceiling fans!

Turning Off Your AC Unit

Have you ever taken a vacation and turned your AC off thinking you would save some money? You’re not alone, it’s a very common mistake. Instead of turning it completely off, it’s actually better to turn it up or down, depending on the time of year. Why? In the summer, turning your home into an actual oven can cause damage to your wood cabinets and flooring, create condensation buildup, and force your AC to work even harder to cool your home when it’s finally turned back on. In colder parts of the U.S., leaving off the heat can lead to frozen pipes and frozen AC units. Instead of turning the air conditioner completely off, we suggest setting the thermostat to 85 degrees in the summer and 65 degrees in the winter, whenever you may be away from you home for an extended length of time.

Dirty AC Filters

In Florida, it is particularly important to keep your AC filters clean. This means changing them out at least once a month, especially if you have pets, smoke, or have a large number of people in your household. Dirty air conditioning filters can block proper air flow, cause build up, and make your AC work harder, which may eventually lead to some costly repairs. Do yourself a favor and change out your filter at the beginning of each month. The cost is minimal, but it provides significant benefits.

Your air conditioner is just like your car; you can follow all the instructions to keep it running, but if you neglect to give it a proper tune-up every now and then, it’s likely to breakdown. When this happens, it typically costs a pretty penny to getting it working again. Routine maintenance, however, probably could have spotted the issue before it became a real problem. Save yourself time, frustration and money by scheduling an AC tune-up at least once a year. And, if you hear any strange noises, or your system continually cycles on and off, call an AC repair company asap! Don’t wait until it’s too late and your system completely breaks down.

For AC repairs and tune-ups in the North Florida area, contact Cool Connections at 904-908-5252 . Our friendly, professional staff is ready to help.