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During the hottest months of the year, the last thing you want to encounter is issues with your air conditioner. The good news is a lot of common problems with AC units can be fixed by the homeowner. HVAC technicians are in high demand, so you may want to self-diagnose the problem to see if it’s a quick fix. Things like air filters and batteries for the thermostat you can do yourself. But what do you do when the air from the AC smell?

You know, damp, musty smells or even burning odors.

Keep reading to learn when AC odors, leaks, and other HVAC issues can lead to severe issues.

Does Your AC Smell?

If you haven’t turned on your AC in a while, it could emit an odor when booting up. This is typically no cause for concern, especially if the odor quickly fades. However, if you’re running your AC regularly and suddenly smell something, it’s time to take a look.

An AC smell could be a warning sign that something is wrong with the unit. Detecting HVAC problems early can save you money down the road on AC repairs.

Is Something Burning?

An important odor to pay attention to is burning smells. There are times when an AC emits fumes that make it seem as though the AC may be on fire.

If the odor fades, it is probably the heat from the unit burning dust.

Prolonged burning smells could be a warning sign that something is malfunctioning in the unit. Faulty wiring or failing compressors or fans could be the culprit.

Condensation Leaks

Are you getting a smell from your AC unit that smells damp and moldy? This may be the result of a condensation leak. It also means water from the AC is accumulating somewhere.

Check your drain line that leads outdoors for sediment buildup causing a blockage. If there is, clear the blockage and determine what’s causing the problem.

Condensation leaks can end up in the crawl space or behind walls. Left unattended, it can lead to mold and foul odors.

Chemical Smells

Chemical smells and AC smells are not always related. Sometimes it is as simple as having chemicals too close to the AC unit. These items need to be correctly stored.

A Chemical small from the AC unit is cause for concern. Homeowners may not know what does freon smells like. Nor can they detect chemical smells from the AC.

Whether it is a chemical or smells like gas, you should turn off the unit and call an HVAC technician.

Is It Time to Call an HVAC Tech?

Once you pinpoint the cause of an AC smell or leak, contact an HVAC company if you can’t fix the problem. The last thing you want to do is cause additional damage. Leaving the matter unattended could lead to more significant issues.

If you’re in the Livingston, Texas, area, we have you covered. Contact us now or text (936) 213-5116 for all of your air conditioning repair needs.

Are you wondering, “why does my AC smell bad?”

Air conditioners can get a little smelly. And three-quarters of homes in the United States have air conditioners, so that’s a lot of smells out there!

But don’t worry. You don’t have to live with a smelly air conditioner for the rest of your life. Read on for our guide to identifying AC smells and how to fix them.

1. Clean It Out

If your AC smells bad and you’re not sure why, try cleaning it. You need to be regularly cleaning your air conditioner. Otherwise, dirt and mold can build up, which is one way that unfortunate smells can happen.

This is especially important during humid summers in East Texas, where your air conditioner can fill up with water even faster.

Clean out any filters in your air conditioner regularly, to prevent issues like mold or buildup.

2. It’s Broken

If the smell coming from your air conditioner smells like it could be burning, there’s probably a problem. It’s possible that your air conditioner is just overheating — in that case, turn it off, wait, and turn it on in a day or so. If that doesn’t fix the problem, there’s probably a bigger issue.

It could be that one of the parts in your air conditioner is damaged or failing. It could also be a problem with the wiring in the electric system of your air conditioner, that a wire is either damaged or not working at all. 

If anything is broken inside your air conditioner, it’s time to call in the professionals. An air conditioning repair service can help you out with AC repairs.

3. Dead Animals

If an animal dies in your vents, it will eventually start to smell. This can also be dangerous for your health. If you suspect a dead animal is in your vents, turn off your air conditioner and call in an HVAC service to evaluate the situation. 

If they confirm your suspicion, you may have to call in a pest removal service in order to resolve the problem.

So, if the smell in your home resembles garbage or rotten eggs, make sure you stop and call in the professionals as soon as possible.

4. Leaks

Depending on what sort of air conditioner you have, there may be fluid leaking from the unit. If you smell anything that seems similar to exhaust fumes, it could be a sign that there’s a leakage issue with your air conditioner.

If you’re in East Texas, make sure that you call an HVAC company in your area. They can send out a technician and ensure that your air conditioner is back to a tip-top condition in no time at all.

Bad AC Smells? Now You Know Why

Hopefully, you have now figured out exactly what is causing AC smells in your home. If you don’t recognize the smell, or if you think it might be dangerous, it’s probably time to call in the professionals.

Are you looking for air conditioner repair services in East Texas? Contact Best Air and Heat LLC today. We serve the Greater Lake Livingston area, and other areas near there.

Do you need AC repairs in Livingston, TX? Or is your AC issue something you can fix on your own?

If you’re not sure, don’t worry. We’re going to help you discover the answer with this guide.

Below are 5 problems that indicate your air conditioner is in need of professional repairs. The guide also includes some troubleshooting steps you can try before you call an HVAC technician.

Most importantly, don’t wait to get these problems repaired. If you do, the issue will get worse. And by worse, we mean more expensive to fix/potentially dangerous.

So, do yourself a favor. Keep your household safe and your AC bills low by heeding these warning signs.

5 Signs You Need AC Repair

1. You Can’t Fix It Yourself

Whatever your issue is, you might be able to solve it with these troubleshooting steps. If these don’t work, get professional AC repair.

First, check/change your air filter. You should be doing this every 2-3 months. If you never have, that’s probably the cause right there.

You see, when your air filter’s full to capacity with dust and other pollutants, it blocks the airflow. This puts too much strain on your HVAC and causes a lot of the problems on this list.

Secondly, be positive that the thermostat is set properly. No, we’re not insulting your intelligence.

A lot of things can cause the thermostat to become programmed incorrectly without your knowledge. This includes power outages and kids pressing buttons. Sometimes, the thermostat is glitchy or broken.

To know for sure, test all the functions of the thermostat. Make sure that scheduled programs can be activated and deactivated as well. If it seems it isn’t working right, try replacing it.

2. Hot Air From The AC

Your AC blowing warm air could indicate a failing compressor or a problem with the refrigerant. Either way, have it examined by a professional HVAC technician.

3. It’s Always Humid in Your House

Running your AC naturally dehumidifies your house. It’s just part of the science of how it works.

If your house is always humid inside, no matter how much you run the AC, it’s not working as it should. Call to have it repaired.

4. Strange AC Sounds/Smells

If the air from the vents smells like dust, vinegar, something burnt, or anything besides fresh air, call it in. These odors could indicate serious problems, like a rodent infestation or bad wiring.

Likewise, your AC should always sound quiet. If it’s louder than it used to be or is making any sort of strange noise, get it repaired.

5. The AC Is Leaking Moisture

When you see moisture leaking from or pooled near your AC, shut it down and call an emergency AC repair service. Hopefully, it’s just condensation. But it might be refrigerant, which is toxic to the pets and people in your household.

For AC Repair in Livingston, TX Contact Best Air And Heating, LLC

Don’t hesitate to get AC repairs if you need them. If you are experiencing any of the problems on this list, contact us now to request an appointment and an estimate. Best Air Conditioning and Heating has provided superior HVAC services in Livingston, TX and the surrounding areas for over 37 years.

Spring is here! It’s time to clean out the cobwebs and dust-off your air conditioning unit. 

Long before summer hits, Texas temperatures can creep close to the 90° mark. That’s why having a clean, functioning AC unit is so important.

Not sure how it’s done? We’re here to help!

Keep reading for tips on how to clean your air conditioning unit for spring so you can enjoy the shining sun and chirping birds in comfort.

Choose the Right Time and Temperature

You want to spring clean your air conditioning unit before it gets too hot. The last thing you want is to discover your unit isn’t working during the peak of summer. 

What most people don’t realize is that the outside temperature plays a part in when to troubleshoot your unit.

It needs to be at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit outside for you to determine if your system’s working properly.

Turn Off the Unit

Never try cleaning your air conditioning unit while it’s on and operating. Switch the unit off using the main power switch.

If you’re unsure where it is, check the owner’s manual.

Clean the Condensor Fins and Coils

The condenser fins on your unit look like blades and collect dirt, debris, and dust over time. If you don’t clean them properly, they can block airflow and prevent cool air from entering your home. 

Some fins are protected by a metal cover. Remove this before using a vacuum or dust rag to clean any debris from the fins. 

Be gentle. These fins are fragile and bending one will compromise the efficiency of the unit.

If your AC has coils, you’ll want to use a recommended cleaning product to clean these as well. Spray the cleaner on and wait for it to foam. Once it does, gently rinse it with a garden hose. 

Lubricate the Ports

Your air conditioning fan works overtime during the hot Texas summers. To keep everything moving smoothly, you’ll need to lubricate the fan’s motor, which is usually located on the underside of the cover.

Most motors have lubrication ports. Once you locate them, remove the cap or plug and use about six drops of motor oil in each one. Check your unit’s owner’s manual to find out what type of oil is best. 

Clean Up Around the Unit

For optimal airflow, there should be no obstructions within 2 feet of your AC unit. This prevents unwanted debris from entering the fan or objects from crowding the unit and restricting airflow. 

Check that your air conditioning unit is level. If the ground has settled over time, you may notice your AC unit tilting to one side.

This can lead to complications and necessary repairs earlier than you expect. Shimmy the corner of the unit to make sure it’s level and stable. 

Spring Clean Your Air Conditioning Unit from the Inside Out

After you’re done with the exterior, head inside your house. You need to clean the evaporator coils and check the drainage pan.

Just as you did with the outside unit, be sure the power is completely off. This means turning off the electric source to the unit.

Next, open up the unit and access the evaporator coils. Use a soft brush to gently clean any dust or debris from the coils. 

You also need to clean out the drainage pan, which collects condensation. Remove the pan and wash it with mild soap and water before replacing it.

HVAC System Maintenance and Repair Guarantees Comfort and Safety

Spring cleaning is a favorite pastime of many homeowners. It’s a time to refresh, renew, and prepare for the warm summer months ahead.

Cleaning your air conditioning unit and performing routine maintenance unwanted interruptions in your comfort and service.

Let the professionals at Best Air and Heat help prepare your Livingston home for spring. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

In the meantime, browse our blog for more helpful tips and tricks on maintaining your HVAC system. 

A noisy furnace can ruin a cozy night in fast! Not only are the sounds annoying, but they can also indicate underlying issues that shouldn’t go unnoticed.

Thankfully, there are techniques you can use to stop the noises and bring peace and quiet back into your home.

Follow along as we discuss how to quiet a noisy furnace.

Replace Filters

If you notice banging noises coming from your furnace, then airflow issues may be the culprit. As soon as you hear the sounds, check your unit for dirty or damaged filters. If you find that they’re worn out, remove and replace them immediately.

Dirty filters make it impossible for air to flow freely through the furnace which then causes loud noises and puts you and your family at risk for carbon monoxide poisoning.

Lubricate

The insides of furnaces contain several moving parts to help them function properly. These parts include blower wheels. When they’re disrupted, it causes the furnace to make a squealing noise.

When this occurs, all you need to use is lubrication oil to help loosen up the wheels. Since it can get backed up over time, regular maintenance is needed to ensure that it stays in good condition. It’s recommended to oil the wheels once a year to prevent damage.

Secure Access Panels

Furnace issues can also manifest themselves as rattling noises. These sounds, however, could be as simple as a loose screw or as serious as a loose panel.

If you’re experiencing rattling, turn off your furnace immediately and make sure all screws and panels are secure. This should solve the problem and get your system up and running as normal.

Open Supply Vents

High pitched sounds are an indication of low return airflow. It’s best to open your vents when you notice the noise. The root of the problem could be caused by increased pressure being put on the ductwork as a result of closed vents.

Once you do open vents, it may also be best to get ductwork cleaning done to fix the issue as well.

Call a Professional

There are several things you can do on your own to quiet your furnace but some problems could be a health risk. If you’ve tried all of the techniques mentioned with no success, then professional assistance is needed.

Your furnace may be experiencing major issues such as metal rubbing against each other or worn bearings. In this case, it’s best to have an expert come in and inspect.

Get Rid of Your Noisy Furnace Fast

No one wants to deal with a noisy furnace and although solving the issue may vary in complexity, it is possible. We hope that you found our guide helpful and know what to pay attention to in your house if you ever experience a loud furnace.

You can get rid of the sounds as quickly as they develop by paying attention to them and keeping up with maintenance.

With over thirty-five years of service in the Livingston, TX area, we’re dedicated to providing the highest level of comfort to your home. Contact us today to learn more about how we can best service you!

If you can’t stand the heat, get out of the kitchen. But don’t head out into the cold.

Heating systems have many moving parts. Most systems work fine, even through the winter.

But sometimes, one part breaks down. Your heating system is broken, but you’re not sure how.

You can call for a heating maintenance company, or you can fix the problem yourself. Here is a quick guide on what to do when your heating won’t turn on.

Identify the Problem

There are a few different heating systems out there. The forced-air system is the most common one. The system uses a furnace and blower fan that pushes warm air into the home through ducts.

Gravity air systems use the physics of warm air rising and cool air sinking. A furnace in the basement heats the air, which rises upward through ducts. The cold air returns to the basement back through other ducts.

Both of these systems use filters to remove dust and air. If your furnace, fans, and ducts are working, dust may be clogging your filters. Run the system and then listen for the sounds it makes.

If your furnace makes a banging or rattling noise, its machinery may be broken. If your furnace does not turn on, the circuit breaker may have been turned off. Your thermostat may also be malfunctioning.

If your ducts are rattling, your installation may not have been correct. Something may be caught in your ducts, causing them to rattle.

Heating Help

Buy some tools in advance of any problem. You will need a screwdriver, wrenches, and a flashlight.

You can change your filter with a few basic steps. Remove the filter, orient its replacement, then insert it into your system. Make sure it fits neatly into your system.

Check your circuit breaker to make sure all switches are on. Open the motor assembly and oil it, so it runs correctly. Tighten all belts and pullies within your motor using your screwdriver.

Keep your ducts in place with connective sealing. Apply an extra layer, even if you don’t think it’s necessary.

Maintain all parts of your heating system on a regular basis. Clean all of the parts of your furnace, and swap out your filters. You should inspect your furnace every month, even in the summertime.

Heating cannot work on its own. You should insulate your windows, doors, and attic. Make sure you keep heat in with fiberglass and radiant surfaces.

You should also have two annual inspections. Call your local heating maintenance company and ask them to go through your system part-by-part. If your furnace needs significant repairs, call a maintenance company.

Heating Won’t Turn on? Get the Help You Need

The heat is on. You just might not be feeling it. Learn how to repair your heater when the heating won’t turn on.

Check to see if electricity is running into your system. If your system seems to be working, your filter may be clogged. Replace it with a new one.

If your ducts are rattling, secure them in place. Insulate your house to assist your heating system.

Go to the experts when you need help. Best Air Conditioning and Heating, LLC. is Livingston, Texas’s leading HVAC company. We service East Texas with heating repairs and inspections.

Contact us today, or call us at 936-213-5116.