Author: Semper Fi

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Furnace Not Blowing Hot Air? Here’s Why

Written by Semper Fi on December 16, 2024. Posted in Air Conditioner Troubleshooting, Furnaces. No Comments on Furnace Not Blowing Hot Air? Here’s Why

With winter just around the corner, keeping your home warm and cozy is a top priority as the temperatures drop. That’s what your furnace is for—just turn it on, and it should heat your home. At least, that’s the idea. But what if you turn on your furnace and discover it’s blowing cold air instead? That won’t do much to keep your family warm, and you’ll want answers fast to get things back on track.

Is your furnace or heater not blowing hot air? You’re in the right place. Here, we’ll walk you through 7 potential reasons your furnace might not be working properly—and when it’s time to call in the professionals.

Incorrect Thermostat Settings

If you notice your furnace is blowing cold air, the first thing you should do is check your thermostat. While this seems obvious, your furnace can blow cold air if the thermostat setting is wrong. You’ll want to check the fan setting as well. If your fan is set to “on,” then it will blow air continuously throughout your home, making the air feel cold. Try switching the fan setting to “auto” and see if that helps.

If this doesn’t fix the issue, check the temperature setting on your thermostat. It should be set to a temperature that’s higher than the current reading in your home. If it’s lower, make the necessary adjustments to reset the temperature.

After changing the fan and temperature settings, the last thing you can check is your thermostat’s batteries. Low or dead batteries can lead to improper temperature control, so change the batteries and see if that fixes the problem.

Dirty Filter

Do you remember the last time you changed the air filters on your furnace? If the most recent filter change was months or years ago, this may be the issue as to why your furnace isn’t blowing hot air.

HVAC air filters catch particles such as dust and allergens before they circulate throughout your home, making your air cleaner. Over time, these filters can get so full of dust and debris that airflow is limited in and around your furnace.

Luckily, this is an easy fix. Take out the filters in your furnace and hold them up to a light. You should be able to see some light passing through the filter. If you can’t see any light, this means the filter is full, and it’s time to replace it. Look at the size of the filter and make sure you replace it with the same size to ensure proper airflow.

You should change your air filter every 6 months. If you have pets or more traffic in your home, you may need to do it more frequently. Check your filters once a month to see if you need to replace them.

Pilot Light Issues

Gas furnaces use a pilot light to ignite the heater and warm the air. This light is meant to stay on at all times, but sometimes it can get blown out by accident. If you recently had maintenance done on your furnace, the pilot light may have been snuffed out. The first thing to do is check your furnace ignitor and see if the pilot light is on. If it’s off, you may be able to relight it yourself. Check your furnace’s manual to see how to safely relight it.

If you relight the pilot light and it goes out again shortly after, it could be dirty. A buildup of dust and other debris can prevent your pilot light from staying lit. You can clean off any debris you see and try relighting it again.

If the light goes out again after cleaning it, the last thing to check is the gas supply line. Make sure the line is open and your furnace is getting a consistent supply of gas.

Ducts are Leaking

The ducts in your home are what carry the warm air from your furnace to the vents throughout your home. Over time, these ducts can get worn down from daily use. This can lead to cracks or damage that cause outside air to mix with the warm air from your furnace. Cold air can seep in, and your warm air can leak out, leading to the air from your vents feeling cold.

Damage and weak spots in your ductwork can go unnoticed until you turn on your furnace and feel cold air. You can have an HVAC professional inspect your ducts and check for any damage or weak spots that can be letting in cold air.

Low Fuel Supply

Whether you have a gas, electric, or oil furnace, they all run off a fuel source to keep them running properly. Without fuel, your furnace may start to blow cold air without producing any heat.

Gas Furnace: A gas furnace can’t produce heat if it doesn’t have gas to burn. Check that your gas valve is open and your furnace is getting the gas it needs.
Electric Furnace: An electric furnace won’t run without power. If your furnace is not running at all, check for a blown fuse or breaker.
Oil Furnace: Oil furnaces need to burn oil to produce heat. Check to see if the oil tank is empty and if your furnace has enough fuel to run.

Old or Dirty Flame Sensors

Your furnace has a built-in flame sensor that turns it on and off depending on if there’s a flame present. This prevents gas from traveling through your vents and into your home. Over time, this sensor can become faulty and give false signals to the furnace. A buildup of dirt and grime can also cause the sensor to malfunction, leading to your furnace turning on and off repeatedly.

If the flame sensor shuts off your furnace, the fan may keep chugging along. This filters cold air throughout your home rather than the warm air you want.

Furnace Is Overheating

If your furnace is not blowing warm air, it could be that it’s overheating. Your furnace could be overheating for a variety of reasons, such as needing to replace your filters. As your furnace gets older, parts can begin to wear down and become less efficient.

If you suspect your furnace is overheating and you’ve tried the previous options with no success, contact an HVAC expert to take a look. The issue could be serious enough that you don’t want to risk trying to fix it yourself. Leave it to the professionals who know what they’re doing.

When Should You Call a Professional?

Your furnace and HVAC system consist of a ton of different parts that all work together to keep your home warm. When your furnace isn’t doing its job, there could be one of many causes. You can do basic at-home fixes such as replacing filters, adjusting the thermostat, and checking your furnace’s fuel source. Any other repairs need to be left to the professionals.

Semper Fi Heating & Cooling offers furnace repair services to get your home warm in time for winter. Our team will work with you to get to the root of the issue and get your furnace back up and running in no time. We also offer maintenance services to help prevent these issues from happening in the first place. We’re proud to serve our local communities in the Phoenix and Las Vegas areas.

The Benefits of Using a Smart Thermostat

Written by Semper Fi on December 16, 2024. Posted in Blog, Indoor Air Quality, Reduce Utility Bills. No Comments on The Benefits of Using a Smart Thermostat

When the seasons begin to change, you may find yourself having to repeatedly adjust your thermostat to keep your home comfortable. Setting your thermostat to different temperatures throughout the day can reduce your energy bills each month and help you save money. However, it can get tedious to manually change the temperature with a traditional thermostat.

Luckily, as technology continues to advance, we’re seeing the HVAC industry growing with it. Smart thermostats allow you to set your temperature for different times of day and program a specific schedule—but that’s not all they offer.

If you want to learn more about this new HVAC technology, you’ve come to the right place. Semper Fi Heating & Cooling is here to guide you on how smart thermostats work and the top 10 benefits of using one in your home.

How Smart Thermostats Work

Smart thermostats use sensors to monitor the temperature in your home and trigger the heating or air conditioning to maintain your set temperature. You can also program your smart thermostat to maintain different temperatures at different times of day, and the thermostat will learn your routine and make adjustments on its own.

Most smart thermostats connect to your home’s WiFi and allow you to adjust the temperature from an app on your phone. With this convenient feature, you can turn on the air conditioner on your way home from work so your home is nice and cool when you return.

10 Reasons to Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat in Your Home

What sets a smart thermostat apart from a traditional one? Upgrading your thermostat is an investment, and you want to make sure that investment is worth it. We’re here to provide the information you need to make an informed decision. Here are 10 reasons you should use a smart thermostat in your home and upgrade today.

1. Reduce Your Energy Costs

With the cost of everything on the rise, you want to save money where you can. Smart thermostats use machine learning to learn your routine and make adjustments to your thermostat setting throughout the day. It’ll look at the temperature outside, your normal temperature settings, and how long it takes to heat or cool your home. With that information, it’ll adjust the thermostat as needed.

Over time, this clever technology can reduce your annual energy costs by up to 8%, which quickly adds up.

2. Thermostat Adjustments Tailored to Your Schedule

Whether you work a 9 to 5 job or have a more flexible schedule, you can program your smart thermostat to match your schedule. During the summer, you can program your thermostat to keep your home a little warmer while you’re at work and then have the air conditioning kick in when you get home. That way, you always come home to a cool and relaxing environment.

A smart thermostat can also use movement sensors to determine your daily activity patterns and adjust your thermostat temperature accordingly. You don’t have to lift a finger to keep your home comfortable.

3. Improve Indoor Air Quality

Your HVAC system can improve your indoor air quality as it circulates air. Filters in your system catch dust, pollen, and other debris before it travels throughout your home. A smart thermostat can send you alerts to change your filters when they get too full, helping to keep your indoor air clean and dust-free.

A smart thermostat also has humidity sensors that read the humidity levels in your home. It makes adjustments on its own to help prevent mold growth or excessive dryness in your home.

4. Increase Your HVAC System’s Lifespan

Your HVAC system is a significant investment of your time and money, and you want that investment to last as long as possible. A smart thermostat can make minor adjustments to your settings that lessen the wear and tear on your unit, helping it to last longer. The less your system has to work to keep your home comfortable, the longer its lifespan will be.

As mentioned earlier, smart thermostats also send you alerts for routine maintenance services such as filter changes. These minor maintenance practices make sure your system is working properly and can catch potential issues before they become more serious.

5. Balance Comfort and Energy Savings

Saving money on your energy bills doesn’t mean you have to bundle up in the winter while you watch television on the couch. A smart thermostat allows you to customize your temperature settings for maximum energy savings without having to sacrifice your comfort. The thermostat will learn your routine and adjust the temperature to your liking while you’re home.

When you’re at work or away from home, your smart thermostat will adjust the temperature so your HVAC system doesn’t run as often. When you come home, the thermostat will automatically shift the temperature to your personal preference so you stay nice and comfortable.

6. Get Updates & Alerts

A smart thermostat is not only convenient, but it’s also a helpful tool. We mentioned earlier that your smart thermostat can send you alerts for routine maintenance services such as filter replacements, but that’s not all it can do. You can get alerts straight to your phone about:

Sudden Power Outages
Your Energy Use Habits
System Failures
And more!

7. Improve Your Home’s Resale Value

If you’re looking to sell your home, you may be looking into ways you can increase its value. A smart thermostat is an affordable investment that will make your home stand out on the market. Potential buyers will love the convenience and energy efficiency of a smart thermostat, which may make them more interested in your home.

8. Manage Your Settings on the Go

Smart thermostats connect to your home’s WiFi, so you can access your settings from the app on your phone or laptop. This means you can change the temperature in your home from anywhere. If you’re at work during the winter and want your home to be toasty when you get home, you can change the settings from your office before you start your commute home.

Whether you forgot to adjust the temperature before leaving for vacation or the weather takes an unexpected turn, you can just open the app and adjust your thermostat accordingly. This will save you money in the long run and prevent a massive energy bill when you get back from the beach.

9. Reduce Your Carbon Footprint

A smart thermostat is a great tool to help protect our planet! Since you use less energy, your home produces fewer emissions that could harm the environment. Not only do you save money, but you also save the environment. It’s a win-win!

10. Peace of Mind

No one wants to spend their time worrying about their HVAC system and whether their thermostat is working properly. As your thermostat gets older, the sensors can begin to fail, leading to increased energy use and an uncomfortable home. If your thermostat is getting older and starting to lose efficiency, it may be time for an upgrade.

With a smart thermostat, you get the peace of mind of a reliable system that will last for years. Many brands come with a warranty that ensures your new thermostat is protected in the event something happens.

Make the Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat Today

A smart thermostat makes adjusting the thermostat a breeze. You save money on your monthly energy bills without having to compromise your comfort. As technology continues to improve, the convenience of a smart thermostat pays for itself.

Ready to make the switch to a smart thermostat? Semper Fi Heating & Cooling will help you install your new smart thermostat and make sure it’s ready to go. If you already have a smart thermostat, we also offer repair services to keep your system running smoothly. Contact us today if you have questions or want to schedule an appointment with one of our HVAC experts.

Ways to stay warm during winter in Arizona with Semper Fi Heating & Cooling

Winter HVAC Checklist

Written by Semper Fi on December 12, 2024. Posted in Furnaces, HVAC, Maintenance. No Comments on Winter HVAC Checklist

As the Valley of the Sun transitions into its mild winter season, Phoenix homeowners have a golden opportunity to optimize their home’s comfort and energy efficiency. While our winters might not mirror the harsh cold of northern states, HVAC maintenance is equally crucial for keeping your home comfortable and your energy bills in check.

At Semper Fi Heating & Cooling, we understand that Arizona winters present unique challenges. Even though daytime temperatures hover pleasantly in the 60s and 70s, nights can dip surprisingly low and put unexpected stress on your heating system.

Our comprehensive winter HVAC checklist is designed to help local homeowners prepare their systems for these temperature fluctuations while maximizing home energy efficiency. In this guide, we’ll walk you through essential winter HVAC maintenance steps tailored specifically to Arizona’s climate.

You’ll learn how to:

Prepare your heating system for those occasional chilly nights.
Identify potential efficiency improvements.
Prevent unexpected breakdowns during winter’s cooler periods.
Reduce your energy consumption and lower utility costs.

How Cooler Weather Affects Your HVAC System

The transition from Phoenix’s intense summer heat to winter’s milder temperatures is more than a welcome relief for homeowners—it’s a critical moment for HVAC prep. As temperatures drop, your heating components face a unique set of challenges that can impact overall system performance and longevity.

During colder months, your HVAC system transitions from constant cooling to intermittent heating cycles, which creates distinct stress points. Components that have been dormant during summer must now spring into action, potentially exposing maintenance issues that went unnoticed for the last 6 months. Seals can become brittle, lubrication may have dried out, and minor wear can gradually progress into significant problems if not proactively addressed.

Phoenix’s winter temperature swings—where daytime temperatures might reach 70°F and nighttime temperatures can dip into the 40s—put additional strain on heating systems. These dramatic transitions require your HVAC to cycle on and off more frequently than it would during more stable seasons. This increased stress can accelerate component wear and potentially increase energy consumption, especially in situations where your system is already operating below peak efficiency.

Dust and debris accumulated during the dry summer months can also compromise your HVAC system’s performance. As you transition from cooling to heating mode, these particles obstruct airflow, reduce heating efficiency, and potentially trigger allergies or other respiratory issues. Comprehensive winter HVAC maintenance ensures these potential challenges are identified and resolved before they require complex and costly repairs.

5 Tips for Preparing Your HVAC System This Winter

Winter HVAC prep isn’t complete without the following steps. Consider this your furnace maintenance guide as you prepare your home for the changing seasons and the challenges that come with it.

Clean or Replace Your Air Filter

The air filter is your home’s first line of defense against airborne contaminants that weaken heating and cooling performance. As dust, pollen, and debris accumulate, your system must work harder to maintain proper airflow, which can lead to increased energy consumption and mechanical strain. Regular filter cleaning and maintenance—typically every two to three months—ensures:

Optimal system efficiency
Reduced energy costs
The prevention of unnecessary wear on your heating equipment
Improved indoor air quality

Cover Your HVAC Unit

Phoenix’s winters may be mild compared to other regions of the country, but protecting your outdoor condenser unit is critical for long-term HVAC health and performance. Clear a five-foot perimeter around the unit and cover it with a breathable, protective sheet or tarp to prevent debris accumulation, avoid potential water damage, and minimize exposure to harsh environmental elements. This simple yet effective protective measure can extend your HVAC system’s lifespan by reducing exposure to corrosion and damage during the cooler months.

Calibrate Your Thermostat

Winter in the Phoenix metro area requires a precise balance between comfort and energy efficiency, making thermostat calibration a critical step in furnace maintenance. Modern smart thermostats offer programmable settings that automatically adjust temperatures based on your daily schedule, potentially reducing annual energy consumption by up to 10-15%. By fine-tuning your thermostat’s settings or upgrading to a smart thermostat, you’ll ensure consistent home comfort, prevent unnecessary system strain, and reduce overall heating costs.

Check Drain Lines & Clean Coils

Your HVAC system’s condensate drain lines and heat exchange coils are vulnerable to debris buildup. When this happens, it can significantly impair performance and potentially lead to costly repairs. Accumulated dust, dirt, and microbial growth obstruct drainage, reduce heat transfer efficiency, and create health hazards through compromised indoor air quality. Professionally cleaning these components ensures optimal system performance, prevents water damage, and maintains the hygienic operation of your heating system.

Test Your Furnace Ahead of the Cold Weather

Proactively testing your furnace before the winter season can help identify potential issues before they unexpectedly cause problems during seasonally cold nights. A comprehensive test run allows technicians to detect mechanical inefficiencies, clean accumulated dust from air ducts, and ultimately ensure your system is prepared for consistent heating performance. This approach provides peace of mind by preventing unexpected breakdowns and expensive emergency repairs during the year’s most critical heating periods.

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A Prepared Furnace is the Key to a Cozy Winter

At Semper Fi Heating & Cooling, we take pride in being resources for the communities we serve. We’re committed to providing home comfort solutions that go beyond the scheduled job. While we hope you found this guide educational, at the end of the day, furnace maintenance is a job for trained HVAC professionals. Working around gas and electricity can be extremely dangerous—but our specialized 29-point furnace tune-up provides proactive furnace care for complete safety and comfort during the winter.

We also recognize that winter HVAC maintenance is more than a routine checklist—it’s about keeping your home a personal sanctuary during Arizona’s cooler months when we often spend more time inside. As a veteran-owned and -operated business, our team of expert technicians brings military-grade precision to every service call, diagnosing and repairing potential issues before they get the chance to compromise your home’s heating system.

By choosing Semper Fi Heating & Cooling, you’re not just getting a maintenance service; you’re investing in peace of mind and long-term HVAC reliability that will keep your home comfortable through every winter night.

Did you find this Winter HVAC Checklist helpful? Let us know by sharing your comments or questions below!

Mesa, AZ Homeowner adjusts thermostat to save money on heating bills during winter

How to Save On Your Heating Bills This Winter

Written by Semper Fi on December 12, 2024. Posted in Furnaces, Reduce Utility Bills. No Comments on How to Save On Your Heating Bills This Winter

Winter in the desert might sound mild, but Arizona residents know better. While daytime temperatures may hover in the 60s, desert nights can dip below freezing. When temperatures drop, your heating bill rises to keep your family warm.

The good news? Cutting down on your heating costs doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort. By making a few simple adjustments and adopting energy-saving habits, you can lower your energy use and save money this winter. At Semper Fi Heating & Cooling, we’re here to help with 7 tips on how to lower your energy consumption this winter and save money.

Dress Warm & Turn Down the Thermostat

The first thing you can try is turning down your thermostat. You don’t need to drop it into the 40s and freeze yourself and your family—even dropping a few degrees below your normal can save you some money. You can safely drop it as low as 64 degrees without causing harm to your family or pets.

The more you bundle up, the lower you can drop your thermostat. You’ll need less heat if you’re wearing a hoodie and sweatpants than if you’re wearing a tank top and shorts in the house. However, the idea is to find a temperature that still keeps your family safe and comfortable, so don’t feel like you have to buy a winter coat to sit in your home. Get snuggly and save yourself some money.

According to the US Department of Energy (DOE), you could save as much as 10% on your energy bill a year just by lowering your thermostat by a few degrees during the day. In the winter, you can lower your standard thermostat setting by 7 to 10 degrees for 8 hours during the day when nobody is home. In areas with milder winters, such as Arizona, this minor decrease can lower your heating bill and save you money in the long run.

Seal Leaks and Improve Insulation

You want your home to hold in all the warm air from your HVAC system and keep out the cold from the outside. Proper insulation in your attic and ducts makes sure no cold air creeps in and no warm air leaks out. You can schedule a home inspection to take a look at your attic and ducts and check for any damage or leaks. They can also seal any leaks they find so you save energy and money this winter season.

You can also check your windows and doors for any gaps or leaks. Pay attention to the seal around your windows and exterior doors for any cracks or gaps in the weather stripping or caulking. If you notice a draft coming from your window and a gap in the seal, you can seal them on your own with a caulk gun or additional weather stripping from the home improvement store.

If you notice a draft coming from the bottom of your door, you can get a door draft stopper that fits on the bottom of the door to prevent cold air from entering your home.

Take Advantage of Sunlight

While the sun may not be out for as long during the winter months, this doesn’t mean it’s gone for good. The sun still provides heat that can help keep your family warm without running the HVAC system as much. If you have blinds or curtains on your windows, be sure to open them during the day so the sun’s rays can filter in and help heat your home. In the winter, the sun is your friend, so be sure to take advantage of the free warmth it has to offer.

When nighttime rolls around, be sure to close your blinds to add an extra layer of insulation around your windows. It may not seem like much, but having curtains or blinds on your window can help block out the cold and keep your family warm.

Reverse the Direction of Your Ceiling Fan

Did you know your ceiling fan spins both clockwise and counterclockwise? Your fan’s standard setting should have it pushing air down into the room, making it feel cooler and creating a nice breeze.

However, switching the direction of your fan can help your home feel warmer. Hot air naturally rises, meaning your heat wants to drift towards the ceiling. If you switch the fan direction, it’ll pull air up towards the ceiling and push it towards the edges of the room and back down to the floor. Your ceiling fan will help circulate the warm air in your home and keep you comfortable without having to run your furnace more.

If you’re not sure what direction your fan is spinning, hold your hand a couple of inches away from it and see if you feel any air movement. If you feel air being pushed down into the room, then you can reverse the direction so it pulls air up. Each model of ceiling fan is slightly different, but there should be a small switch on the side of the fan that changes its spin direction. Be sure to turn your fan off before you try to flip the switch.

Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat

With a busy schedule and everything else you have to manage, you might feel like you can’t keep up with having to manually change your thermostat setting multiple times a day. Luckily, there’s a way around this. Smart thermostats allow you to customize your thermostat settings depending on the weather or time of day.

With a smart thermostat, you can set your home to be at different temperatures at different times of day. For example, you could program it to be at 72 degrees from 8am to 5pm and then bump up to 76 degrees from 5pm to 8am the next day.

If you’re interested in upgrading to a smart thermostat, you can work with your local HVAC company to help you get it installed and set up properly in your home. Some models require an internet connection to your home’s HVAC system, and a professional company can help make sure everything is good to go before winter officially hits.

Change Your Air Filter

The air filters in your HVAC system play a crucial role in the overall efficiency of your system. Depending on your unit and the size of your filters, they should be replaced every few months to keep your system running smoothly and your home clean. New air filters also improve airflow and make it so your system doesn’t have to work as hard to heat your home.

You can also upgrade your air filters to HEPA filters. They are slightly more expensive than traditional air filters, but they catch more airborne particles and keep your home cleaner. They also keep your HVAC system running more efficiently, saving you money over time.

Regular Furnace Maintenance

A great way to be proactive about your energy savings is with regular furnace maintenance appointments. These appointments include an inspection, cleaning, and servicing of your heating system to make sure it’s running efficiently and ready for the cold winter. Many HVAC companies recommend maintenance appointments at least twice a year, once before winter and once again before summer.

If you need local furnace maintenance services, our team at Semper Fi Heating & Cooling is ready to help. Our team will make sure your furnace is ready to go before winter hits, so your family stays nice and warm. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

HVAC Repairs to Leave to the Professionals

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

Replacing Refrigerant

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

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

Thermostat Calibration

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

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

Electrical Repairs

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

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

Replacing Parts

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

Duct Cleaning

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

HVAC Repairs You Can Do Yourself

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

Tidying Up Around Your HVAC Unit

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

Changing Air Filters

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

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

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

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

Cat looking at large pile of pet fur and dirt debris

Air Quality Tips for Homes with Pets

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

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

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

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

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

Regular Grooming

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

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

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

Use an Air Purifier

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

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

Wash Pet Bedding

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

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

Routine HVAC Maintenance

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

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

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

General Cleanliness

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

HVAC Repairs You Can Do Yourself

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

Explore Semper Fi’s Indoor Air Quality Solutions

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

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

Family suffering from cold in bed at home

How to Improve Indoor Air Quality During Allergy Season

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

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

What is indoor air quality?

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

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

Common Allergy Symptoms

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

Common allergy symptoms include the following:

Runny Nose
Itchy Eyes
Mild Cough
Throat Irritation
Congestion
Difficulty Breathing

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

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

Main Sources of Indoor Allergens

Common allergens in your home include the following:

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

How to Reduce Indoor Allergens

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

Dust and Vacuum Regularly

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

Change Your Bedding

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

Clean Your Heater

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

Invest in an Air Purification System

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

Bathe Your Pets Regularly

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. More Expensive Energy Bills

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

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

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

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

2. An Aging Furnace

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

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

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

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

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

3. Strange Noises

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

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

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

4. Poor Air Flow

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

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

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

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

5. Unusual Smells

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

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

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

6. Frequent Cycling

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

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

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

Contact Semper Fi for Furnace Repair & Replacement Services

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

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

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

Debunking Common Furnace Myths: What You Need to Know

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

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

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

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

1. Turning Up the Thermostat Will Heat Your Home Faster

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

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

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

2. Closing Vents in Unused Rooms Saves Energy

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

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

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

3. A Bigger Furnace is Better

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

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

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

4. Restoring An Old Furnace Saves Money

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

5. Space Heaters Are More Effective

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

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

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

6. Furnace Maintenance Is Optional

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

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

Trust Semper Fi Heating & Cooling For All Your HVAC Needs

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

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

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Should You Turn Off Your AC When On Vacation?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Cons of Turning Off Your AC Before Vacation

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

Why You Should Leave Your AC On While On Vacation

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

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

Special Cases

Weekend Trips

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

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

Extended Stays

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

Other Ways to Save Energy While on Vacation

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

Clean the Air Filters

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

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

Pull the Plug

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

Close the Blinds & Curtains

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

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

Lower the Temperature of Your Water Heater

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

To Chill, or Not to Chill?

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

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