With the warm weather on the horizon, it’s important to begin considering the health of your HVAC system. You likely haven’t considered the health of your air conditioning unit since the end of last summer, but now it is once again time to consider how well your unit is functioning for a summer of fun ahead.

Change the Filter – First and foremost, you should change the filter of your air conditioning unit. Although it seems simple, this is one of the most important measures that you can take to reduce the need for AC repair. Filters should be replaced on a regular basis to help circulate fresh, clean air throughout your home. If you need assistance finding the right filter for your system or if you’re due to order a new one, our team at Brown’s Arctic Air is happy to help!

Clean the Condensation Lines – There is a pipe in your AC unit that carries condensation away from your unit that can easily get clogged. In the case that there is blockage, your unit itself will become backed up. This can quickly snowball into a serious problem resulting in the need for immediate AC repair . Of course, if you need help locating this pipe, please call our team.

Remove Surrounding Debris – Your unit needs to be clear of built-up debris in order for it to run at peak performance. Take a quick look at your unit and make sure there are not any surrounding plants, leaves, branches or long grass that have the potential of getting in the way of your unit’s airflow. We also recommend cutting the grass before turning on your unit. Ideally, you will check back on the unit itself at least once per month to make sure that new debris hasn’t accumulated.

Contact Our Team at Brown’s Arctic Air. Our team at Brown’s Arctic Air highly recommends regular HVAC maintenance to avoid the need for AC repair at the most inopportune times. We are happy to look over your system before the weather gets warmer! Please get in touch with us today. 352-728-4990

Brown’s Arctic Air, Inc. highly recommends Taking Care of Business (TCB) Air Duct Cleaning, John Dixon, (352) 867-9949

Air Duct Cleaning is the Removal of the Build Up Of Dust and Dander in A Homes Ventilation System. This Air Circulates and Re-circulates around and around the inside of the home which is the air you and your family are breathing.

The Benefits of Air Duct Cleaning: Less Sneezing, Fewer Allergies, Less Dusting, and Doctor Recommended

Remember to Check Your Air Filter on a Regular Basis and Change it According to the Manufacturers Recommendations.

Just like most things in life, your a/c only has a certain lifespan. At some point, you’ll have to consider replacing your thermostat if it is no longer working. From A/C installation to replacing your thermostat, rely on our team at Brown’s Arctic Air for timely, affordable and high-quality services. Keep the following tips in mind to help determine when to replace your thermostat.

It’s Malfunctioning – Is your home excessively cold when it should be providing you comfort and safety? This is a tell-tale sign that you need to invest in a new thermostat. You also may be experiencing temperature fluctuations in each room, whether the room is too hot or too cold, this is a red flag. Malfunctioning thermostats are also slow to respond to changes, which is a sign you should call us as soon as possible especially with summer right around the corner.

Your Thermostat is Old – Consider the sheer age of your thermostat to help determine if it should be replaced. If your thermostat is over 30 years old, it won’t run as well as more current models. A newer model will be much more energy-efficient and provide you with much-needed consistency.

It’s Not Automatic – Older thermostats require that you set the temperature manually. Programmable, wi-fi-driven thermostats ensure that your home is always at a comfortable temperature even when nobody is home.

Help with thermostat and A/C installation is only a phone call away! Give us a call today 352-728-4990.

We love our pets. They are our consistent company, our best friends, and even our running buddies. However, with pets comes the shedding and dander. Pets are an addition to the mindful equation of how to keep your HVAC systems at home working efficiently. Many people don’t realize how much a pet can affect your HVAC. It’s important to take care of your pet, like grooming and bathing, in addition to keeping your HVAC system running properly (for example, changing filters).

These maintenance tips will be sure to help with the success of your HVAC.
Check and Change Filters – Pet dander is tiny particles of dead skin that leave the body of your bet and become airborne in your home. The floating dander gets caught in your filters. Very yuck! Eventually, the dander will block the air conditioner’s airflow and eventually stop working. However, the air conditioner is still running, so you will get a bill, but no cooling results. This is not ideal. Change your air filters regularly and if this isn’t possible, you should be purchasing higher-quality filters.

Groom Your Pets – You can save yourself the maintenance (or not as frequent filter changes) by grooming your pets. Did you know that your pets are more likely to shed more in the warmer weather than during wintertime? It’s important to get into the habit of bathing your pet routinely. Groom them enough that they are comfortable year round and in turn, keep your HVAC system from inhaling pet hair and dander. Removing dirt, grease, and allergens from your pet will kelp keep said factors away from your HVAC system. In addition to making your pet happier and healthier, you’re also allowing your HVAC system to have a longer lifespan.

Clean, Clean, Clean – Pet dander is a major allergen. It can be found in our homes, Always use natural or fragrance-free cleaning products to improve your air quality at home. Pet hair and dander clog air vents. Vacuuming the floors? Try to use the hose attachment and vacuum around your air vents. The hose will most likely catch a good amount of hair and dust. In addition, clogged air ducts lead to viruses and bacteria. We recommend getting an AC duct cleaning service for your ducts because professionals are more likely to successfully clean all areas.

HVAC Filter Upgrades – Just like breeds of pets, there’s a variation of HVAC filters. If you have a pet, your home will benefit from an HVAC filter with a higher MERV rating. This will produce a more efficient function. While most residential areas will have a MERV rating of 2, having a pet changes this. A MERV rating of 8 and up will work the best in your home filled with pets. If you need help deciding which HVAC unit to upgrade to, reach out to us at Deljo Heating & Cooling!

Checking For Exposed Wires – We know how much our pets love chew toys. Especially when they are just a few inches from their mouth—easily accessible. The exposed wires on an HVAC system can turn into a snack for your pet. No matter how trained your pet is, you can never be too careful. Also, destroyed wires mean a non-efficient HVAC system. Enclose the wires in conduits to keep your pets save and your air conditioning running smoothly. For outdoor units, build a fence barrier to keep your pet from playing too close. If there is a minimum 3-foot clearance around the unit, your HVAC equipment will continue to work well and your pet will not be able to destroy it.

Invest in a Programmable Thermostat – We can’t say it enough: invest in a programmable thermostat. When you have pets, this could be the best way for you to save money while also keeping your pets comfortable while you are away (at work, on vacation, etc.). When you aren’t home, programmable thermostats still allow you to lower, raise, or turn off the temperature settings in the house. Check out some great programmable thermostats that could work well for your house and lifestyle.

While this list is just guidelines, we hope that you take it seriously as a pet owner. With summer just around the corner, it is important to have a well-maintained air conditioner. Helping clean both your pet at the units will allow for a cool summer and comfortable indoor quality.

June 20th marks the official start of summer! Now that the weather is finally starting to warm up in and around Florida, it’s important to give your air conditioning unit some attention. Thankfully, there are some easy yet helpful tips on how to better prepare your system for the months ahead. Our team at Brown’s Arctic Air, recommends the following to make sure your unit will operate at its best during Florida’s Summer.

Change the Filter – First and foremost, change that filter! Although this is a topic that we often talk about, it’s an easy way to increase the efficiency of your AC unit. Layers of built-up grime, dust and dirt cause your unit to work even harder to circulate the cold air throughout your home. Make sure to not only change your filter between seasons but every 30-60 days to help cut down on wasted energy. If you need assistance in finding the right filter for your unit, our team is happy to assist.

Check on the Duct-work – If your home uses a forced heating system, your duct-work is utilized for your central air. While chances are high that your duct-work is operating as it should be, it’s never a bad idea to quickly check your duct-work to see if you can find any leaks or holes that need to be replaced. This small act of preventative maintenance can provide you with peace of mind all summer long.

Clean the Condenser & Coils – Buildup on the AC condenser can significantly impact the airflow coming out of your AC unit, so cleaning it is very helpful in ensuring that it runs smoothly. Also, make sure to clear away any debris that is surrounding your unit so there aren’t any blockages.

In the case that your air conditioning unit needs more serious maintenance before the start of summer, our team at Brown’s Arctic Air is ready to help! Contact us today with any questions that you may have. 352-728-4990

It doesn’t take more than a summer of living in Florida, to realize you have a few weather challenges to face. Summers here include oppressive heat and above-average humidity. The 264 days of sunshine that Florida averages might make it all worthwhile, but only If you’re cool, calm, and comfortable.Surviving—and enjoying—the Florida heat depends on how well your cooling system maintains the optimal temperature inside your home. You can buy an entire wardrobe of Hawaiian shirts, stock up on popsicles, and install a backyard pool, but if your HVAC system isn’t able to keep up with the heat, it’s all for nothing.
No need to break a sweat! We have a few timely solutions.Read on and explore how you can maximize the power of your air conditioner to help you survive the heat in Florida.

Get to Know Your Thermostat. Humans help their bodies acclimate to hot climates by gradually spending more time in the heat. Of course, they also hydrate and wear loose clothing. Is there anything you can do to make your home more comfortable when it’s hot outside? If you aren’t as familiar as you’d like to be with your thermostat, now is the time to make friends. A well-managed thermostat is one key to maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures.

Start with a seasonal tune-up. Dust off the outside of the thermostat with a soft brush. Do the same inside. You also clean any grimy buildup around the contact points with folded paper. You should also check the batteries if you haven’t done so in the last few years.

Set your thermostat at the ideal temperature. Energy experts received a lot of grief on social media when they suggested setting the thermostat to 82 degrees at night. They were more generous with their recommendation to keep the thermostat at 78 degrees during the daytime. We say start at 78 and if it’s too warm, move the thermostat down one or two degrees. Make sure you understand the fan settings on your thermostat. One mistake many homeowners make is to set the fan on LOW, MEDIUM, or HIGH. The optimal fan setting is AUTO. This gives the fan motor a break when the system is not running through the cooling cycle. If you haven’t upgraded to a programmable Wifi thermostat, it’s a smart move to make.

Keep the Windows Closed During Florida Heat. That may sound like a no-brainer, but who doesn’t enjoy a fresh breeze coming in through an open window? There’s nothing wrong with opening the windows in the evening, provided the outside temperature cools off. However, if the outside temperature is higher than the temperature inside your home, you’ll defeat the purpose. If you live in a well-insulated home, you shouldn’t have issues keeping it cool without opening windows. A well-maintained HVAC system adds a needed boost. Keeping windows, curtains, and blinds closed during the day offers one more level of assistance for your air conditioner.

Did you know gaps between your windows and window frames allow cool air to escape? Likewise, hot air seeps in through unsealed windows. If you notice hot spots around your windows, check the weather stripping. You can also purchase window film or install sun-filtering shades

Install Ceiling Fans. You might want to re-think if you think you don’t need ceiling fans because you have an air conditioner. If you’ve removed the ceiling fans in your home, consider putting them back! Ceiling fans can help your air conditioner work more efficiently.

Here’s how it works: When operating ceiling fans and the AC simultaneously, you may enjoy cooler indoor temperatures and lower cooling bills. While the ceiling fan won’t lower the temperature, it can keep you comfortable with a wind-chill effect. It helps you feel more comfortable due to the breeze on your skin. To benefit from the wind-chill effect, make sure you set the fan to turn counterclockwise.

Heat and Air Conditioner Maintenance. If you’re a snowbird or have friends who live in one of the colder states, you may think servicing your HVAC system once a year is sufficient. Living in the Florida heat usually means servicing your HVAC system at least twice a year, especially with the ever-increasing heat people all over the state are experiencing. When you consider that many people in Florida, use their cooling systems year-round, it takes more than routine filter changes to keep air conditioners running smoothly.

What does air conditioner maintenance include? In addition to installing a clean air filter, your HVAC tech will:
-Clean the condenser and evaporator coils
-Inspect all the mechanical components
-Check refrigerant levels
-Inspect electrical connections
Regular maintenance means you’ll have an easier time dealing with the Florida heat. It also helps your HVAC technician spot potential issues that could lead to costly repairs.

Upgrade Your HVAC System. You could get between 15-and 20 years of service from a well-maintained air conditioner. If you’re cooling your home with an aging system, consider planning for a replacement. HVAC technology continues to improve all the time. You’re not stuck with what worked great 10-20 years ago.

Today, you have options that may not have been available when you built your home. Consider one of these modern upgrades to your HVAC system:
-Split System with a Heat Pump
-Mini-split or Ductless System
-Packaged System
Before you decide on a new cooling system, it’s wise to talk with an HVAC contractor. They’ll come out to your home and do an assessment that will help ensure you get the right size system and the one that best suits your needs.

Talk to a Florida HVAC Specialist Today. As you can see, you have several ideas you can try right now to help you survive the Florida heat. From adjusting your thermostat to keeping windows closed, to routine maintenance, to upgrading your system, there’s a solution that will work for you.

The team at Brown’s Arctic Air, understands how vital keeping cool in summer is to your well-being. Contact us today to schedule heat and air conditioning service. We can also provide a quote for a new HVAC system. 352-728-4990

Your FL home’s HVAC system is essential to maintaining a comfortable temperature indoors throughout the entire year. Once your HVAC system begins to have issues, you’ll quickly notice a decline in your home’s comfort level and air quality. For these reasons and several others, it’s important to take great care of your air conditioning and heating unit. However, there will come a time when a new HVAC system is required. Even the highest quality systems that are well maintained will eventually need replacing. Knowing when to replace your unit is the first step to ensuring your home’s indoor air stays comfortable and healthy at all times.

Not sure what to look for in a system that needs replacing? Continue reading below for a list of several signs that a new HVAC system is needed.

1. You Haven’t Replaced It in Over 10 Years: When was the last time you had a new unit installed in your home? If it’s been over 10 years, then your unit is most likely due for a replacement. You want to replace your HVAC system every 10-15 years. HVAC units are made with durable parts, but after 10 years, these parts will begin to deteriorate. How the system was maintained and how often it was used will be a variable in determining when it’s due for replacement, but the 10-15 year window is a general rule to follow.By this time, replacing it with a new unit will lower your carbon footprint and your monthly energy costs as well.

2. The Costs to Repair It Are High: Once an HVAC unit begins to deteriorate, you’ll notice it needs more and more repairs on a more frequent basis. If you find yourself constantly repairing your HVAC unit, then this is a sign it’s time to replace it. Having to make frequent repairs (either the same repairs or different ones each time) can add up. These repairs can get costly, and although you might have to spend more money upfront for a new unit, you’ll save money by not having to make costly repairs on a regular basis.

3. It Requires Freon on a Regular Basis: Does your HVAC unit require freon to help keep the air cool? R-22 freon is gradually being phased out for use in HVAC units. This type of refrigerant isn’t healthy for the environment, so it won’t be used in new models. If your unit still uses this freon, then this is a good sign it’s time for a new unit. It’s also important to take note of how often you’re having to use any type of refrigerant in your unit. Having to put refrigerant in your HVAC unit on a regular basis is a sign that something’s not working properly. The unit should be able to produce cold AC throughout your home without you having to constantly replace the refrigerant. There could be a leak or another issue at hand, so be sure to contact Brown’s Arctic Air to assess the situation.

4. You Notice the House Is Too Hot or Cold: As your HVAC unit begins to age out, it’ll struggle to cool or heat a room efficiently. If you notice rooms in your home either being too hot or cold (during the winter), then this could signal that something’s not working right with your cooling or heating system. If you live in a multi-story home, then pay close attention to the temperature on both levels of the home. Is the upstairs much hotter than the downstairs? A good HVAC technician will be able to determine the cause of the problem and the best solution.

5. The System Makes Strange Noises: When your HVAC unit is running, do you often hear unusual noises? Although an older unit might be a bit louder when running than a brand new unit, it shouldn’t be making strange noises. Noticing any clanking or other noises you’ve never heard your HVAC unit make before should signal to you that something’s not right. To determine the exact cause, you’ll need to have a professional technician come out to inspect the unit.

6. Your Monthly Energy Bill Has Gone up: When your HVAC system can’t function efficiently, you’ll notice an increase in your monthly energy bill. Although it’s normal for your energy bill to increase and decrease depending on the month or season, it should remain consistent based on what you’re used to paying the years before. If you notice an unusually high energy bill, then the HVAC unit will need servicing or replacement. There could be several reasons why your HVAC unit isn’t running smoothly, so the best thing to do is find the problem and make the repair.

7. The HVAC System is Leaking: Have you noticed water dripping from your indoor unit? When your HVAC system is leaking, water will accumulate on the floor underneath the unit. You may also notice your air conditioning freezing on a regular basis as well. The refrigerant could be leaking from the outside unit, causing this to happen. If you notice any types of leaks, then it’s best to have a professional HVAC service come out and diagnose the issue.

Is your HVAC system ready for replacement? Use the helpful signs listed in this guide above to determine if your HVAC unit is in need of repair or a full replacement. When you’re unsure of the best course of action to take, never hesitate to contact Brown’s Arctic Air. Give us a Call Today 352-728-4990.

We love that things stay warm and sunny down here in Florida, but it’s no secret that our summers get hot, hot, hot. In fact, average highs hover around 90 from May until September, making for what feels like a never-ending summer season.

At these high temperatures, safety and comfort become key concerns. While you may enjoy the feeling of a hot summer day for an hour or two, you don’t want things to heat up that much indoors.

So, what is the best AC temperature for summer? How can you keep things comfortable without spending a ton of money on your energy bill?
Read on to find out what the best AC temperature in summer is and how you can make your home a cool oasis.

Steps to Take Before Turning on Your AC Full-TimeBefore we talk about the best temp for your AC in summer, let’s talk about your AC, itself. The last thing you want is to head into the hot months unaware that your AC is in poor condition. Fortunately, there are a few easy-to-spot signs that your AC needs repairs or replacement.

Around April, go ahead and give your AC a test run. While it’s on, check for the following signs: Strange or unpleasant smells coming from the ducts or vents. Inconsistent or low airflow in one or several places. Strange sounds coming from the ducts, vents, or HVAC unit. Leakage coming from your HVAC unit or condensation around ducts or vents. Inability to control the temperature using the thermostat. No airflow at all

By giving your air conditioner a test run before you need it full-time, you can save yourself some serious trouble down the line. Let us know if anything seems unusual and we’ll inspect, repair, or replace your AC as quickly as possible.

The DOE Has Declared the Best AC Temperature for SummerThe Department of Energy has taken the time to evaluate our energy consumption and energy costs for us. What have they discovered in the process?

According to the DOE, the best AC setting for summer is 78 degrees. Once you go lower than 78 degrees, you run the risk of increasing your energy bill by about 4-6% per degree. While dropping down to a chilly 68 can seem appealing on a hot summer day, it’s going to come with a cost–and there are better ways to cool your home.

Additional Ways to Cool Your Home Without Touching the Thermostat
A lot of people see 78 degrees and immediately think, “No way. There’s no way that’s low enough for comfort!” The good news? There are plenty of ways to cool your home further without touching the thermostat at all. Turn On the FansFor starters, get those fans going. A simple ceiling fan can help circulate the air, although we do caution that because heat rises, ceiling fans may stir up the warmest air in your home.

Add a few standing fans, box fans, or even desk fans to the rooms you’re using throughout the day. When you have fans blowing on or around you, it creates an indoor “wind chill.” This can actually reduce the real-feel temperature in your home by up to four degrees.

Reduce Sun Exposure and Cool Air LossAnother important step to take is to limit the sunlight coming through the windows. This is especially important if you get a lot of direct sun on the south-facing side of your home. Closing your blinds or curtains during the brightest hours can reduce the heat generated by the sun’s rays.

In addition, consider using weather stripping around your windows and doors. This can block any cracks that are letting the cool air out. Consider Using a Dehumidifier. We’ve all heard people say that “a dry heat” is preferable to high temperatures matched with high humidity. Why is high humidity less comfortable? When humidity gets over 60-70%, our bodies have a harder time cooling down. By using a dehumidifier in humid parts of your home, you can cut down on that sticky hot feeling and give your body a chance to regulate on its own.

When Can You Go Higher Than 78 Degrees?The very same study from the DOE that declared 78 degrees the best AC temperature for summer gave us another important gem. By raising the temperature in your home by 7-10 degrees for about eight hours a day, you can save up to 15% on your energy bills.

Of course, no one wants to sit around in their home when it’s 85 degrees inside. When can you go higher than 78 without sacrificing your comfort?
If the members of your household are at work or school for several hours a day, this can be an optimal time to raise that thermostat. If you have a programmable thermostat, you can even set it to go back down to 78 degrees before you come home. That way, you come home to comfort.

What if someone is home most of the time? Another option is to keep an eye on nighttime temperatures. Our Florida nighttime temperatures tend to be much more tolerable, meaning that you can turn on the fans, open the windows, and enjoy some natural cooling overnight.

Stay Cool Without Spending a Fortune Running Your AC This SummerThere you have it! The best AC temperature for summer is 78 degrees, even in Florida. With our tips and tricks, you can stay cool this summer without raising your energy bill through the roof.

Need a tune-up on your AC unit? Do you think it may be time for a replacement? Brown’s Arctic Air is here to help. Give us a call Today. 352-728-4990