Sponsored by: Atlas Butler Heating and Cooling
Problems with your HVAC?
It’s the hottest day of the year, and the air conditioner suddenly stops working. Perhaps your furnace is making more ominous sounds than usual, or your air vents don’t feel like they’re pumping out as efficiently as they used to.
If you experience any issues with your heating, ventilation or air conditioning (HVAC) system, it may be an easy, DIY repair — or it could be time to call your local HVAC professional for a replacement. Here’s how to know what to do.
Consider the system’s age
The average lifespan of an HVAC system is 12 to 15 years, so depending on your system’s age, it may be a factor if you start encountering issues. If your system is newer and you’re seeing things like weaker airflow or thermostat problems, it may be a quick fix, like replacing an air filter. If your system has been in constant use for a couple of decades and you’re seeing some major, recurring problems, it may be time to start researching replacements. The experts at Atlas Butler Heating and Cooling can make recommendations based on the size of your home and your needs.
Check the ducts and filters
Not getting the strong airflow you’re used to? Is one room of the house suddenly a different temperature than the others? Check the ducts, filters and the unit, which is typically outside your home. Make sure the ducts aren’t obstructed or clogged with dust, the air filters are clean and replaced regularly and that no debris — like leaves or sticks — are obstructing the outdoor unit. These are easy DIY fixes.
Be aware of any health or safety issues
When your HVAC system malfunctions, it can lead to serious safety issues. Clogged ducts can lead to air quality problems, leaks can cause mold and mildew formation and heating units in need of repair can leak deadly carbon monoxide. If you suspect that your home’s systems are causing any health or safety problems, call an expert like those at Atlas Butler Heating and Cooling to assess what needs to be done.
Make note of repair costs that are adding up
If you find that you are calling your local HVAC service company over and over again for recurring problems, it might be time to start replacing things. All those repairs add up in terms of cost and degradation of the overall system, and all that money you’re spending on repairs could go into a replacement.
Keep an eye out for irregularities or inefficiencies
If it costs more to heat the home when fuel prices are the same or your electricity bills are sky-high in the summer because the air conditioning isn’t working as efficiently as it should, it’s time to have a professional assessment of the system. Ensuring your HVAC systems are running efficiently will save you money.
Get an expert opinion
Your local HVAC company can help you not only keep your systems running safely and efficiently with a scheduled inspection and maintenance plan, but they can help you make decisions about when to repair or replace those systems. Replacement can save you money down the line, especially if that repair will only get you another one or two years out of the system.
Atlas Butler has the largest team of certified technicians in central Ohio, available 24 hours a day. Their highly trained technicians will diagnose the problem and provide solutions. If your furnace or air conditioner isn’t working, Atlas Butler pledges to have you up and running the day you call, and more than 95% of the time they can repair or replace your system the same day without any after-hours or overtime service fees.
Atlas Butler traces its roots back to The Ramey Mfg. Co. of Chillicothe and has been recognized nationally as an industry leader. Through the years, they have remained focused on serving others by solving their HVAC problems. It is their mission to serve others with honest solutions for their customers’ needs, and to be creative, work smart and have fun. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit their website or call (614) 681-2167.
