Category: Air Conditioning

Mold in Air Conditioning Units: Causes, Health Effects, and Prevention

August 24, 2025Dennis Reed

Yes — mold can grow inside air conditioning units, and it’s more than just a bad smell. Moisture, dust, and...

Pros and Cons of UV Light in HVAC. Is it Worth it?

August 24, 2025Dennis Reed

Is UV Light in HVAC Worth It? Yes — UV light can disinfect air in your HVAC system, killing germs...

AC Dehumidifier(Dry) Mode- What and When Do You Use It?

August 24, 2025Dennis Reed

What is Dehumidifier (Dry) Mode in AC? High Humidity is the number one cause of mildew and mold growth in...

Does Air Conditioning Use Water? Understanding How Your AC Unit Works

August 10, 2025Dennis Reed

Do Air Conditioners Use Water? Air conditioners primarily use refrigerants to cool and dehumidify indoor air. During this process, condensation...

A man smiling because he's found a simple way to clean AC coils without removing anything.

How to Clean AC Coils Without Removing the Unit – No Tools Needed

July 24, 2025Dennis Reed

How to Clean AC Coils Without Removing the Unit – No Tools Needed Cleaning your AC coils is essential for...

pic showing the warm outcome of dirty AC coils

Best AC Coil Cleaning Brushes and Tools

July 24, 2025Dennis Reed

Best AC Coil Cleaning Brushes and Tools for DIY Maintenance Proper AC maintenance requires the right tools for the job...

A picture of a woman that is learning about AC Coil care

Signs of Dirty AC Coils and What to Do About Them

July 24, 2025Dennis Reed

How to Tell If Your AC Coils Are Dirty A well-functioning air conditioner is essential for staying comfortable during hot...

BTU Calculator for Air Conditioners: Instantly Size Your Room

June 29, 2025Dennis Reed

How Many BTUs Do You Need? Use our free BTU calculator to quickly find out how much cooling power your...

A vent showing the direction clean air flows after installing a UV light in the HVAC

UV Lights vs. UV Air Purifiers in Your HVAC: What’s the Difference and Which One Do You Need?

May 19, 2025Dennis Reed

UV lights in HVAC systems kill mold and bacteria on internal coils, while UV air purifiers like the REME HALO...

Window Air Conditioner vs Mini Split: Which One is Right for You?

When it comes to choosing the right cooling solution for your home, two popular options are window air conditioners and mini splits.

Both have their own set of advantages and disadvantages, and making the right choice depends on your specific needs and preferences.

Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know to help you make an informed decision.

Window Air Conditioner vs Mini Split

1.Cost

a. Window air conditioners tend to be less expensive than mini splits.

b. Mini splits tend to be more expensive to purchase, but can be more energy efficient in the long run.

2. Ease of Installation

a. Window air conditioners are relatively easy to install and can be done by a DIY enthusiast.

b. Though there are a few technical things to watch out for, most people install their own window AC’s without to much hassle.

Mini splits require professional installation, which can be more complicated and time-consuming.

Mini Splits have both indoor and outdoor parts to install and usually take a dedicated circuit that also has to be installed.

3. Flexibility

a. Window air conditioners are limited to one room which their cooling capacity is limited.

b. Mini splits can cool multiple rooms and have more options for controlling temperature in each room.

Being able to set individual temperatures for each room is one of the outstanding features you find on mini splits. That other types of AC do not have.

4.Energy Efficiency

a. Window air conditioners are less energy efficient than mini splits.

b. Mini splits are more energy efficient and can save you money in the long run.

5. Aesthetics

a. Window air conditioners can detract from the appearance of your home and take up valuable window space.

b. Mini splits are “sleek” and somewhat unobtrusive. While its true that mini splits don’t take any windows, they do require a lot of conduit that is run inside and outside of the house.

Both are ugly. But Mini Splits are way more functional for a whole house.

6.Noise

a. Window Air Conditioner tend to be much louder because of the compressor being part of the unit, putting it right in your window.

b. Mini splits are extra quiet because the compressor is installed away from the house outside.

In conclusion,

Window Air Conditioner vs Mini Split: the choice between a window air conditioner and a mini split depends on your specific needs and preferences.

If cost is a major concern, a window air conditioner may be the right choice for you.

If you want more flexibility and energy efficiency and a much quieter AC, a mini split may be the better option.

Summary:

Window air conditioners are less expensive but less energy efficient than mini splits.

Mini splits offer more flexibility, but require professional installation.

The choice between the two depends on your specific needs and budget.

What Size Room will a 15,000 BTU Air Conditioner Cool?

During hot summer months, a properly sized air conditioner is essential for comfortable indoor temperatures.

Getting this part right can be the difference between blowing out your budget or not. And getting the best out of your AC.

One of the most common questions asked when selecting an air conditioner is, “What size room will a 15,000 BTU air conditioner cool?”

What Size Room will a 15,000 BTU Air Conditioner Cool?

Here’s the General Rule of Thumb:

A 15,000 BTU air conditioner is typically capable of cooling a room between 500 and 700 square feet.

However, there are a lot of factors that can impact the cooling capacity of the air conditioner.

Things to Consider

1.Room Layout

Open vs closed floor plan

Open floor plans allow cool air to circulate freely throughout the room, making it easier to cool the entire space.
Closed floor plans limit the circulation of cool air, making it more challenging to cool the entire room.
If you don’t have a open floor plan, it may be a good idea to thing about using multiple units or going with a different type of AC. A Mini Split for example.

2. Ceiling Height

Standard vs High Ceiling

Standard ceilings of 8 feet make it easier for the air conditioner to cool the entire room.
High ceilings can reduce the cooling capacity of the air conditioner, making it more challenging to cool the entire space.

3. Number of Windows

Number and type of windows

More windows and large windows can allow for more heat transfer, making it more challenging to cool the room.
Fewer windows and smaller windows can reduce heat transfer, making it easier to cool the room.

4. Sunlight Exposure

Direct vs Indirect sunlight

Direct sunlight can significantly increase the temperature of the room, making it more challenging to cool.

Indirect sunlight will have less impact on the temperature of the room, making it easier to cool.

5. Insulation

Quality and placement of insulation

Proper insulation helps to reduce heat transfer, making it easier to cool the room.
Lack of insulation can increase heat transfer, making it more challenging to cool the room.

There are several things that can impact the cooling capacity of a 15,000 BTU air conditioner.

Room layout, ceiling height, number of windows, sunlight exposure, and insulation are just a few of the obstacles that can affect the size of the room the air conditioner can cool.

Summary:

A 15,000 BTU air conditioner can cool a room between 500-700 sq ft, but factors like room layout, ceiling height, windows, sunlight exposure, and insulation can impact its cooling capacity.

Can a Window AC Cause Dust? Learn the Truth

Can a window AC cause dust?

“The short answer is yes, a window AC can cause dust. If the air filter is not cleaned or replaced regularly, the unit can become clogged with dust and other particles, which can then be blown back into the room.
Additionally, if the unit is not properly sealed, it can also allow outdoor air to enter the room, along with dust and other particles.

When it comes to keeping your home or office cool and comfortable during the hot summer months, a window air conditioner can be a lifesaver.

However, many homeowners and renters are concerned about whether a window AC can cause dust buildup in their living or working spaces.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at how a window AC works, whether it can cause dust, and what you can do to prevent dust buildup in your window AC unit.

How does a window AC work?

A window AC unit is designed to cool the air in a room by drawing in hot air from the outside and passing it over a cooled evaporator coil.

The cooled air is then blown back into the room, and the hot air is expelled outside..

However, as the hot air is drawn in, it can also bring in dust, dirt, and other particles from the outside.

If the air filter in the window AC unit is not cleaned or replaced regularly, these particles can build up, reducing the efficiency of the unit and potentially causing dust buildup in the room.

How to prevent dust buildup in a window AC:

1.Clean or replace the air filter regularly:

The air filter is the first line of defense against dust and other particles entering your window AC unit.

Make sure to check the air filter every month, and clean or replace it as needed.

2. Seal the unit properly:

A poorly sealed window AC unit can allow outdoor air to enter the room along with dust and other particles.

Make sure that the unit is properly sealed, and use weather stripping or caulk as needed to keep outdoor air out.

3. Schedule regular maintenance:

Regular maintenance for your window AC unit can help to prevent dust buildup and keep the unit running efficiently.

This can include things like cleaning the coils and checking for leaks or other potential issues.

4.Keep the area around the unit clean:

Dust and debris can accumulate around the unit, so make sure to keep the area around the unit clean and free of dust.

This can help to prevent dust from entering the unit in the first place.

5.Use a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter:

If you are particularly sensitive to dust or have allergies, you may want to consider using a HEPA filter in your window AC unit.

HEPA filters are designed to capture very small particles, and can help to keep the air inside your home or office cleaner and healthier.

Conclusion and recommendations:

Overall, a window AC can cause dust if the air filter is not cleaned or replaced regularly, or if the unit is not properly sealed.

However, by taking steps to prevent dust buildup and by scheduling regular maintenance, you can help to keep your window AC unit running efficiently and keep the air inside your home or office clean and healthy.

If you are particularly sensitive to dust or have allergies, consider using a HEPA filter in your window AC unit.

Remember that, regular cleaning and maintenance will keep your AC unit running smoothly, and will help to keep dust at bay.

How Do I Know If My AC Has a Heater?

In the winter months, it can be difficult to know whether your air conditioning unit also has a heating function.

This can be especially confusing if you have recently moved into a new home or are uncertain about the age or history of your current AC unit.

How do I know if my AC has a heater?

If you are wondering whether your AC unit has a heater, there are a few things to look for.

1. Thermostat

The easiest way to determine if your AC has a heater is to check the thermostat.

Many thermostats that control units with both heating and cooling functions will have a switch or button that allows you to change between the two settings.

If you do not see this switch or button, your AC unit may not have a heater.

2. Look it over

Another way to check is by looking at the unit itself, if it is a package unit which is a single unit that contains both heating and cooling components, it has a heating function.

In summary,

How do I know if my AC has a heater? To know if your AC has a heater, you can check the thermostat or the unit itself.
If you don’t find any switch or button on the thermostat or if it is not a package unit then it probably doesn’t have a heating function.

Is it Normal for AC to Run All Day in Summer? Understanding the Circumstances

“It’s normal for AC to run all day in summer if there’s a proper insulation, proper functioning, and proper sizing of AC unit. Otherwise, it’s best to call an expert to inspect and repair.”

Is it Normal for AC to Run All Day in Summer?

Summer is here again and with it comes the heat.
As temperatures rise, most people turn to their air conditioning units to stay cool and get some relief.

But is it normal for AC to run all day in summer? The answer is yes and no.

There are certain circumstances that may lead to your AC running all day in summer.

These include:

1. An Improperly Sized AC Unit:

An AC unit that is too small for your home will have to work harder and for longer periods of time to cool your home.

2. A Lack of Proper Insulation:

Poor insulation in your home can allow heat to enter, causing your AC to work harder to keep your home cool.

3. Dirty Air Filters or Clogged Ducts:

Dirty air filters or clogged ducts can reduce the efficiency of your AC unit, causing it to run for longer periods of time.

4. A Malfunctioning Thermostat:

A thermostat that is not working properly can cause your AC to run unnecessarily, even when your home is at a comfortable temperature.

5. Extremely Hot Temperatures Outside:

On particularly hot days, your AC may have to work harder and for longer periods of time to cool your home.

It is important to note that if your AC is running all day in summer and you may seeing a increase in your energy bills, it is likely that there is an issue with your AC unit or your home’s insulation.

In this case, it is best to call a professional to come and inspect your AC and make any necessary repairs or improvements.

On the other hand, if your AC is running all day and you are not seeing a significant increase in your energy bills, it is likely that your AC unit is properly sized and functioning correctly.

In this case, it is normal for your AC to run continuously in summer to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.

In summary, while it is normal for AC to run all day in summer under certain circumstances, it is important to keep an eye on your energy bills and call a professional if you suspect an issue with your AC or your home’s insulation.

What Temperature Should I Leave My AC On When I’m Not Home?

When it comes to energy efficiency and cost savings, one of the most common questions homeowners ask is, “What temperature should I leave my AC on when not home?”

What temperature should I leave my AC on when not home?

A good rule of thumb temperature to set your AC to when not home is 85 degrees Fahrenheit. However, factors such as insulation, climate, and home size should also be considered.

Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your AC while you’re away:

1.Use a programmable thermostat:

By setting a schedule for your AC to turn on and off, you can ensure that your home is comfortable when you’re there, and energy efficient when you’re not.

2. Consider the climate:

In hot and humid climates, it’s best to leave your AC on a higher temperature to prevent mold and mildew growth.

In cooler climates, you can leave it on a higher temperature and open windows for natural ventilation.

3.Insulation matters:

If your home is well insulated, you can leave your AC on a higher temperature without worrying about your home getting too hot.

If your home is not well insulated, it’s best to keep the temperature lower to prevent heat from entering.

In summary:

A good rule of thumb for determining the temperature to leave your AC on when not home is to set it to around 85 degrees Fahrenheit.

This temperature is high enough to prevent mold and mildew growth in hot and humid climates, while also preventing excessive cooling and energy wastage.

However, keep in mind that this is just a general guideline, and factors such as your home’s insulation, the climate in your area, and the size of your home should also be taken into consideration when determining the best temperature for your specific situation.

What is the Cheapest Way to Run AC? Money Saving Tactics

As the summer months approach, many homeowners begin to consider the cost of running their air conditioning units.

With energy prices on the rise, it’s important to find ways to keep your home cool without breaking the bank.

One question that often arises is, “What is the cheapest way to run AC?” In this article, we will explore some of the ways you can save money on your air conditioning costs.

What is the cheapest way to run AC?

1. Programmable Thermostat:

Use a programmable thermostat to set the temperature higher when you’re not home:

This allows you to control the temperature in your home even when you’re not there.

By setting the temperature higher when you’re not home or asleep, you can save money on energy costs while still keeping your home comfortable.

2. Ceiling fan:

Use a ceiling fan to circulate cool air:

A ceiling fan can help to circulate cool air throughout your home, making it feel cooler even if the temperature is set higher.

This can help to reduce the amount of time your AC unit needs to run, which can save you money on energy costs.

3. Insulation:

Seal and insulate your home to prevent cool air from escaping:

By sealing and insulating your home, you can prevent cool air from escaping through gaps and cracks in the walls and windows.

This can help to keep your home cool without having to run your AC unit as much, which can save you money on energy costs.

4. Shade

Use shading to block the sun’s rays from entering your home:

Shading can help to block the sun’s rays from entering your home, which can reduce the amount of heat that builds up inside.

This can help to keep your home cool without having to run your AC unit as much, which can save you money on energy costs.

5. Maintenance

Keep your AC unit in good working condition by regularly changing the filters and scheduling professional maintenance:

Regular maintenance of your AC unit can help to keep it running at optimal efficiency, which can reduce the amount of energy it uses to cool your home.

This can save you money on energy costs in the long run.

Summary:

In conclusion, there are several ways to keep your home cool without spending a lot of money on energy costs.

By using a programmable thermostat, ceiling fan, and shading, you can reduce the amount of time your AC unit needs to run.

Additionally, sealing and insulating your home can prevent cool air from escaping.

Regular maintenance of your AC unit can also keep it running at optimal efficiency.

How Much Should I Spend on a Window Air Conditioner? Some Considerations

When the summer heat hits, the question of how much to spend on a window air conditioner is a common one.

The cost of a window air conditioner can vary greatly depending on several factors, including the size of the room, the features of the unit, and the energy efficiency rating.

How much should I spend on a window air conditioner?

Here are a few key things to consider when determining how much to spend on a window air conditioner.

1.Room Size:

The larger the room, the more powerful the air conditioner needs to be to effectively cool the space.

Larger units tend to be more expensive, but may be necessary in order to achieve the desired level of comfort.

Other Size Factors:

If you purchase a unit that is too small, it won’t be able to effectively cool the room, and if you purchase a unit that is too large, it will waste energy and result in higher energy bills.

There are some circumstances that may require you to purchase a larger air conditioner.

For example, if the room you want to cool is exposed to direct sunlight, you may need a larger unit to compensate for the added heat.

Additionally, if the room you want to cool is a kitchen, you may need a larger unit to account for the added heat generated by cooking and other activities.

When in doubt, it’s best to consult with an HVAC professional to determine the appropriate size air conditioner for your needs.

They will be able to take into account factors such as room size, insulation, and windows, to determine the best size unit for your home.

2. Window AC Features:

Some window air conditioners come with added features such as remote control, programmable thermostat, and energy saving modes.

These can add to the cost of the unit, but may also provide additional convenience and cost savings in the long run.

Some features to look for:

Remote Control:

Allows you to control the air conditioner from a distance, usually via a remote control or smartphone app.

Programmable Thermostat:

Allows you to set a temperature schedule, so you don’t have to manually turn the air conditioner on and off.

Energy Saving Modes:

Helps to reduce energy consumption and lower energy bills.

Heater:

Some window air conditioners come with a built-in heater, providing both cooling and heating capabilities in one unit.

Air Filters:

Some units come with air filters that can remove pollutants, allergens, and other particles from the air.

Noise Reduction:

Some models come with features that help reduce the noise generated by the unit, making them more suitable for use in bedrooms or other quiet spaces.

Note: Other features that might be available on some window air conditioners include auto-restart, sleep modes, adjustable fan speeds, and more.

3. Energy Efficiency:

Look for units with high energy efficiency ratings, as they will use less electricity and result in lower energy bills.

More efficient units may be more expensive upfront, but can save money in the long run.

In summary,

the cost of a window air conditioner can depend on room size, features and energy efficiency rating.

Consider your needs and budget carefully before making a decision.

What Happens If You Don’t Vent a Window Air Conditioner?

When it comes to staying cool during the hot summer months, many people rely on window air conditioners to keep their homes comfortable.

However, some may wonder what happens if they don’t properly vent their window air conditioner.

In this article, we will explore the potential consequences of not venting a window air conditioner and discuss steps you can take to prevent them.

What happens if you don’t vent a window air conditioner?

1.Reduced Efficiency:

Not venting your window air conditioner can lead to reduced efficiency, meaning that the unit will have to work harder to cool your home.

This can cause an increase in energy costs and can also lead to a shorter lifespan for the unit.

2.Moisture Build-Up:

Another potential consequence of not venting a window air conditioner is moisture build-up.

This can lead to mold and mildew growth, which can cause health problems for those living in the home.

Additionally, moisture build-up can also cause damage to walls and floors.

3.Poor Air Quality:

If you don’t vent your window air conditioner, the unit can circulate dirty air throughout your home.

This can lead to poor air quality and can also cause respiratory problems for those living in the home.

4. Reduced Cooling:

Not venting your window air conditioner can also lead to reduced cooling.

This is because the unit will not be able to properly remove hot air from your home, which can make it difficult to achieve the desired temperature.

5.Difficulty in cleaning:

Window air conditioners also require regular cleaning, if not vented properly, it may become difficult to clean the unit, which can lead to accumulation of dirt and dust making it less efficient and even dangerous if not cleaned properly

To prevent these potential consequences, it is important to properly vent your window air conditioner.

This can be done by ensuring that the unit is installed in a well-ventilated area and by regularly cleaning and maintaining the unit.

In summary, not venting a window air conditioner can lead to reduced efficiency, moisture build-up, poor air quality, reduced cooling and difficulty in cleaning the unit.

To prevent these consequences, proper ventilation and regular maintenance is important.

How Do You Cool a Room With No Windows and No AC?

There are many scenarios that can lead to the question of how to cool a room with no windows and no AC.

Perhaps you live in a city apartment without access to a window or have a basement room without a cooling system. Maybe your working in hot shop…

Whatever the reason may be, it can be a challenge to keep a room without a AC or even a window.

How do you cool a room with no windows and no AC?

1.Use a portable air conditioner.

These units can be easily moved from room to room and do not require a window for venting. It may not be as powerful as a traditional AC unit but it will still cool down the room.

One caveat, these are not useful in high humidity.

2.Create a cross breeze.

If possible, open doors to adjacent rooms or use a fan to create a cross breeze. This can help to circulate the air and make the room feel cooler.

3. Insulate the room.

Use weather stripping to seal any gaps around doors or windows, and use insulation to keep the room cool.

This will prevent warm air from entering the room and will keep the room cooler during the hot months.

4.Use natural cooling methods.

Hang wet towels or sheets in front of open windows to create a cooling effect. You can also place bowls of ice in front of a fan to cool the air as it blows through the room.

5.Invest in a personal cooling device.

Personal cooling devices, such as a handheld fan or personal air conditioner, can provide a cool stream of air directly to the person. Again, these types of devices generally use the breeze created by water and a fan. If its to humid, they wont work to well.

6. Use fans.

A simple and effective way to circulate the air in your room, fans can help to cool you down and create a breeze. Ceiling fans and oscillating fans are particularly effective.

7. Block Windows

Even if you have a window, you might not be able to open it. If thats the case, keep the windows covered and blinds closed during the day. This will prevent the sun’s rays from heating up your room.

8. Use a damp cloth.

Place a damp cloth on your forehead or drape it over your pillow to help lower your body temperature.

9.Try a DIY air conditioner.

Fill a large plastic container with ice and place it in front of a fan. As the fan blows, it will circulate the cool air from the melting ice.

In summary, there are several ways to cool a room with no windows and no AC, including using a portable air conditioner, fans, creating a cross breeze, insulating the room, using natural cooling methods,and investing in a personal cooling device.

While none of these methods may be as powerful as a traditional AC unit, they can still help to make the room more comfortable.