How to Troubleshoot Your Thermostat 

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Is your thermostat acting up? Though they’re usually reliable, thermostats can develop problems that affect your air conditioning. Our HVAC technicians in West Palm Beach, FL, at Pro-Star Air Conditioning Inc can replace or repair yours as needed or fix other issues with your central AC system. Let’s go over a few tips on troubleshooting your thermostat.

Double Check the Settings

The first place to start is the settings on your thermostat. Do you have it set to “On” or “Fan?” Is your AC turning on at all when it should? If the settings are right, it’s time to check the batteries.

Change the Batteries

Does your thermostat run on batteries? If it’s been awhile since you changed them, they might have died. Replace them with new batteries to see if your thermostat starts working right.

Reset It

This is a basic step if your thermostat is on the right settings and has new batteries. How you reset it will depend on the type of thermostat you have, so check the manufacturer’s instructions.

Dust It Off

Thermostats can stop working right when they get dusty. Remove the cover to look for dust inside. Dust it off before trying it again to see if it works.

Check for Corrosion

While the cover is off, check for any corroded parts inside your thermostat. You may need to have the affected parts replaced. Our HVAC technicians can handle that for you or replace your thermostat.

Schedule AC Repair Today!

Are you having trouble figuring out what’s wrong with your air conditioner? Our technicians at Pro-Star Air Conditioning Inc offer prompt HVAC repair in West Palm Beach, FL so you can enjoy a cool home all summer long!

Prevent AC Repairs with These HVAC Maintenance Tips 

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Worried about losing your air conditioning when it’s hot and humid out? You might not be able to completely avoid problems with your AC equipment — but you can reduce that risk with HVAC maintenance! Our HVAC technicians in West Palm Beach, FL, at Pro-Star Air Conditioning Inc provide this service for homeowners in the area. You can also do a few maintenance tasks on your own to help prevent repairs.

Change Your HVAC System’s Filters

Do you replace these regularly? It’s easy to forget this task, but it’s an important one for your AC equipment’s efficiency and longevity. Replacing dirty air filters keeps your AC running smoothly instead of working harder to cool your home.

Clear Space on All Sides of the Outdoor Unit

The outdoor AC unit needs good airflow on each side. Otherwise, it may not run efficiently and can end up breaking down. Get rid of any vegetation growing near the unit, like weeds. Clear away branches and other debris around it, too. You should have a couple feet of space on every side of your outdoor unit.

Wipe Down Vents

The vents in your home can get dusty. Clean them off to ensure that cooled air gets through them without trouble. Make sure all vents are open so your AC cools your home evenly.

Set Up Professional Maintenance

Have HVAC professionals inspect and maintain your AC system once or twice a year. This helps cut down on AC issues.

Schedule HVAC Maintenance Today!

Ready to make sure your home has reliable AC to handle hot weather? At Pro-Star Air Conditioning Inc, our HVAC technicians can inspect your equipment and tune it up before hot weather gets here! We offer HVAC maintenance in West Palm Beach, FL, to keep homeowners comfortable and cool!

 

How Long Will a New HVAC System Last?

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In West Palm Beach, FL, air conditioning isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity. When your HVAC goes out, you might as well start packing for the beach in order to cool off, because it’s not going to get any chillier in this part of Florida. This is why many people tend to invest in a newHVAC in West Palm Beach, FL, since so many of the homes here are older, with worn out systems that are unreliable at best. As a popular HVAC installer in South Florida, one of the most common questions we’re asked is, how long will a new HVAC system last?

Factors Affecting Lifespan

The type of HVAC system you choose plays a critical role. For example, central air conditioners and furnaces typically last around 15 to 20 years, while heat pumps often have a shorter lifespan, averaging 10 to 15 years, especially in regions with extreme weather. Regular maintenance is crucial for maximizing your system’s longevity. Annual inspections, timely filter replacements, and prompt repairs can prevent wear and tear from becoming significant issues. Neglecting maintenance can lead to premature system failure, reducing its lifespan by several years.

Usage Plays a Role, Too

Usage patterns and environmental conditions also matter. An HVAC system in a mild climate that runs intermittently will last longer than one operating year-round in a region with extreme heat or cold. Also important, improper sizing or installation can place undue strain on the system, shortening its operational life.

Upgrading to modern, energy-efficient models may offer added longevity. Today’s systems are designed to be more durable and environmentally friendly than older units, provided they’re installed and cared for properly.

If your current system is approaching the 15-year mark, consider evaluating its performance and planning for a replacement. Contact yourWest Palm Beach, FL HVAC professionals today to learn more!

Checklist of Things to do to Your A/C During the Winter Months in Florida

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Florida’s sweltering summers mean that you rely heavily on your home’s A/C. Come the cooler months, your thoughts are turning to the holidays, relatives visiting and maybe even cuddling up in front of an outdoor fire. The A/C is a distant memory, but it shouldn’t be. This is a great time of year to make sure your A/C is in good condition for when it temperatures start soaring again. Here’s what to include on your winter A/C checklist.

Schedule Professional Maintenance

Winter is the best time to get A/C maintenance in West Palm Beach, FL, because not many people are scheduling A/C repairs during this time. HVAC technicians will clean internal components, check for wear and tear, and ensure the unit operates at peak performance. They’ll also inspect refrigerant levels, test electrical connections, and lubricate moving parts. Investing in expert maintenance can extend the life of your system and prevent costly breakdowns.

Keep the Outdoor Unit Clear

Fallen leaves, dirt, and debris can clog your outdoor unit, restricting airflow. Take a weekend to clear the area around it, but leave deeper cleaning of the actual unit to the professionals. They have the tools to safely clean condenser coils without damaging the equipment.

Replace or Clean Air Filters

Dirty filters can strain your system and lower indoor air quality. Replace disposable filters or clean reusable ones every one to three months, depending on usage. Refer to your owner’s manual to learn how to maintain A/C filters.

Regular winter maintenance prepares your A/C to handle Florida’s unique climate. Let the professionals take care of the heavy lifting, so your system stays reliable. Book an appointment today with your West Palm Beach, FL A/C company, Pro-Star Air Conditioning.

Disassemble and Clean Air Conditioner Parts by high pressure water or air from nozzle or vacuum. Device Maintenance, Health Care, Germ Proactive Prevention, In House Cleanliness and Hygiene concept.

Is My AC Broken, or Do I Have a Dirty Evaporator Coil?

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It’s never fun when your air conditioner isn’t working properly. Your first thought is probably, “Oh no, I’m going to have to replace my air conditioner.” But truth be told, that might not be the case. It might just be a dirty evaporator coil. You will still need to contact an air conditioning contractor in West Palm Beach, FL though. A professional will diagnose the issue and provide you with your options.

Signs of a Dirty Evaporator Coil

If you haven’t had your evaporator coil cleaned in a while, this could be why your air conditioner isn’t working like it should. A residential HVAC services contractor will let you know if this is the case.

These are the signs of a dirty evaporator coil.

  • A/C Not Cooling Well
  • A/C Running Longer Than Usual
  • Frost or Ice Buildup on the Evaporator
  • Higher Utility Bills
  • Reduced Airflow

When you start noticing any of these things, it’s better to have your A/C looked at than to wait. If you wait, it could result in severe damage that might require a complete replacement. If you had had it looked at sooner, a repair might have been sufficient.

The Benefits of Keeping Your Evaporator Coil Clean

A clean evaporator coil will provide you with many benefits. These benefits all result in you saving money month after month and year after year. Not to mention, you and your family will be comfortable whenever you’re home.

  • Longer Coil Life Expectancy
  • Fewer Repair Costs
  • Improved Home Comfort Levels
  • Lower Utility Bills

The moral of the story is…always keep your evaporator coil clean, whether that means learning how to do it yourself or calling a professional to do it for you.

Looking for an Air Conditioning Contractor in West Palm Beach, FL?

Don’t take any chances. If your air conditioner is acting funny or has gone out completely, Please Contact Pro-Star Air Conditioning Inc today. The sooner you call, the sooner we will be able to get your system back to normal — one way or another!

A/C Noises You Should Never Ignore

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Air conditioning is an essential part of life in South Florida. Without it, most people wouldn’t be able to tolerate the scorching temperatures in summer. It makes sense to pay attention when your A/C system is showing signs that a repair is needed. Fortunately, there are several obvious sounds that you should never ignore, which give you ample time to call for A/C maintenance in West Palm Beach, FL.

Banging or Clanking

Your A/C system should never make banging or clanking noises, especially when it’s kicking on. Yes, you’ll hear a little bit of noise when it first turns on, but it shouldn’t be startling. Banging or clanking often indicates loose or damaged components.

Screeching or Squealing

You should never hear high-pitched sounds like screeching or squealing. This sound often indicates an issue with the A/C’s fan motor or belt. These components may be worn out or misaligned; if not addressed promptly, they can lead to system failure.

Hissing or Whistling

This kind of sound indicates a leak somewhere in your A/C system. In particular, it could relate to a problem with refrigerant levels. You should call for service immediately, as this kind of problem could cause irreversible damage to the compressor.

Rattling or Vibrating

This is another sign that may mean loose components. Call for A/C repair to have the situation addressed sooner rather than later.

Grinding

The only grinding you should hear is the sound of the coffee beans in the morning, not from your A/C unit. When the A/C’s motor bearing goes bad, there’s typically a grinding sound.

If you notice any of these sounds, contact A/C repair in West Palm Beach, FL, as soon as possible to prevent further damage.

Signs of Mold in Your Air Ducts

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The humid climate in South Florida makes mold a common HVAC problem for homeowners. Mold affects the health of residents in more ways than one. Regularduct cleaning in West Palm Beach, FL, helps to keep mold out of your air ducts. Here are signs of mold in your air ducts.

Visible Signs of Mold

Mold leaves visible signs of its presence. Take a look at the air vents around your home, including around ducts and on the VAC unit itself. If you notice black, brown, green, or white dots or specks, that’s mold. You should contact your West Palm Beach, FL, HVAC professional as soon as possible to have the ducts cleaned.

Increase in Respiratory Symptoms

Mold in the air exacerbates asthma and can increase or cause respiratory symptoms. If you notice that you or your family members are exhibiting respiratory symptoms—especially if it’s relatively recent—chances are that you need professional duct cleaning services.

Inconsistent/Blocked Airflow

Excess mold growth in the ducts can actually obstruct airflow, leading to inconsistencies in the distribution of treated air in your home. If you notice that some rooms become harder to cool or heat, or if you notice a decrease in airflow, mold could be a contributing factor.

Recent Water Damage

Flooding in West Palm Beach, Florida, has become a more frequent problem due to more unpredictable weather patterns. If your home has recently experienced water damage or if there are leaks near the HVAC system, this can create a conducive environment for mold growth. High humidity levels or condensation around or in the ductwork can also promote mold proliferation.

If you notice any of these signs, or if you can’t remember when the last time you had your air ducts cleaned, contact Pro-Star Air Conditioning today forduct cleaning services in West Palm Beach, FL.

5 Signs You Need A/C Repair

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Air conditioning in West Palm Beach isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity. So when your air conditioning goes out, it’s an emergency that needs to be taken care of as soon as possible. Typically, air conditioning doesn’t just quit out of the blue. There are usually warning signs. Here are X of the most common signs you need A/C repair.

1. You’re Feeling Warm Air, Not Cold

If your A/C is blowing warm air, or air that doesn’t quality as being actually cold, this could indicate that the air compressor isn’t working as it should.

2. You Have Higher Electric Bills Than Usual

When temperatures soar, most people’s A/C bills rise a little. But if your energy bills are higher than the same season as last year, then your A/C unit likely isn’t working as efficiently as it could.

3. You’re Hearing Unusual Noises

As a homeowner, you’re accustomed to what your A/C sounds like when it’s running. If you start hearing any unusual noises–particularly clicking, knocking or humming–book an appointment for A/C service in West Pam Beach, FL right away.

4. Water is Leaking Near the A/C

Contrary to what some people might think, your A/C shouldn’t be leaking, even when you’re running it a lot. This kind of problem might have something to do with excess condensation buildup, but you’ll need to contact an HVAC technician to be sure and to resolve the issue.

5. Thermostat Adjustments Seem to Have No Effect

If your A/C system isn’t cycling on and off like it’s supposed to, or if it seems like your thermostat adjustments are having no effect on the temperature in your home, this is a sign that your A/C needs repair. It’s likely a problem with the thermostat, but there could be an underlying cause that needs to be addressed.

Don’t spend a minute longer than necessary dealing with an A/C system that needs repair. If you notice one or more of these signs, contact the leaders in HVAC services in West Palm Beach, FL for help.

How Often Do Ducts Need Cleaning?

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The climate in West Palm Beach, FL, makes home ducts vulnerable to the accumulation of dust, mold, and other contaminants. Air conditioning in West Palm Beach, FL, isn’t just about keeping your home cool. Make sure you consider the needs of your home air ducts, too.

How Often Do Ducts Need Cleaning?

As a rule of thumb, air ducts should be cleaned every three to five years. This frequency can vary based on several factors, including the location of your home, the age of your HVAC system, and your indoor air quality needs. However, in West Palm Beach, with its humid climate, ducts may need to be cleaned more frequently. Humidity can promote mold growth and the accumulation of other allergens in the ductwork.

Homes with high occupancy or those with pets might require more frequent duct cleaning. Pet dander, hair, and other particulates can clog ducts quicker than in homes without pets.

Finally, if someone in your home suffers from allergies, asthma, or other respiratory conditions, it’s wise to clean the ducts more frequently to ensure the air quality is as clean as possible.

Benefits of Regular Duct Cleaning

It pays to get regular duct cleaning services in West Palm Beach, FL.

  • Improved Air Quality – Regular cleaning helps remove dust, mold spores, pollen, and other allergens, improving the indoor air quality of your home.
  • Enhanced System Efficiency – Clean ducts allow your HVAC system to operate more efficiently, potentially lowering energy costs and extending the life of your system.
  • Odor Elimination – Cleaning can remove odor-trapping particles, leading to a fresher-smelling home.
  • Health Benefits – Reducing the presence of allergens and irritants can have a significant positive impact on the health of residents, particularly for those with respiratory issues.

Regular duct cleaning is essential to maintaining a healthy living environment. Contact us today to schedule your duct cleaning service.

3 Things a Visual Inspection of Your HVAC System Might Miss

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A visual inspection of an HVAC system can reveal any number of details, which is why they’re important for all property owners to conduct on a regular basis. The more often you look at your unit, the easier it will be to determine what’s normal and what could be cause for concern. However, no matter how thorough your visual checks are, the reality is that you can still miss a few major things that only an HVAC professional in West Palm Beach, FL, will be able to find.

Internal Issues

Internal issues can include anything from wiring problems with your electricity to the compressor to condenser coils. If these components are wearing down or the ongoing vibration of the unit has caused them to become misaligned, you might see anything from higher gas bills to hazardous flames.

Leaks

Not all leaks show up on the floor or around the unit. If your refrigerant is leaking, the leak will stay in the system. Over time, you may see operations start to slow down or stop altogether.

Ductwork

Leaking ductwork will eventually reduce the efficiency of the system because it puts more pressure on the system to heat or cool the air. Plus, it can lead to back drafting, which will put more allergens in the air. You may be able to tell that your ductwork is leaking just from looking at a shaft of air through the sun, but the important thing is to keep an eye on it all.

HVAC Inspections in West Palm Beach, FL

While you shouldn’t skip your visual checks, they can’t be done in place of a professional inspection. If you could use a professional HVAC inspection in West Palm Beach, FL, the staff at Pro-Star Air Conditioning Inc. is here to give your systems a thorough once-over.