Cooling - Beltway Air Conditioning

High-Velocity AC vs. Ductless: Finding the Best Fit for Historic Maryland Homes

Written by Kevin on November 2, 2025. Posted in Cooling.

Historic homes in Maryland have a charm that you rarely see in most modern houses. Their craftsmanship and architecture make them a treasure worth preserving. While these homes have a lot of character, they can be difficult to keep comfortable.

Central air conditioning was not part of the original design, so you have the difficult choice of deciding how to cool your historic property without sacrificing its beauty or integrity.

Two popular solutions have emerged for AC installation options that don’t require HVAC ducts: high-velocity air conditioning systems and ductless mini-split systems. Both can deliver modern comfort to older homes, but they do so in very different ways. When you understand the benefits and limitations of each, it will help you decide which option works best for your historic property in Baltimore, Annapolis, Frederick, or anywhere else across Maryland.

Why Historic Homes Need Specialized Cooling Solutions

Builders constructed older homes long before central HVAC systems became a common method of heating and cooling. Thick plaster walls, limited crawl spaces, and intricate woodwork often leave little room for traditional ductwork. Installing a conventional system like this could mean tearing into walls and altering the original architecture. This could easily disturb historic details, which is something no Maryland homeowner wants to do.

Humidity also poses a challenge. Maryland summers bring heavy heat and moisture, and without a proper cooling system, older homes can quickly feel uncomfortable. Worse, excess humidity can damage wood, plaster, and antique finishes. This makes choosing the right air conditioning system not just a matter of comfort but also a way to preserve your home’s integrity.

What Is High-Velocity Air Conditioning?

High-velocity air conditioning uses flexible ducts that are typically only 2 inches wide to deliver conditioned air throughout your home. Instead of requiring large ducts, the system winds narrow tubes through walls and ceilings, allowing installation with minimal disruption.

The air comes out of small, round vents rather than large, rectangular registers, making the system far less intrusive visually. A high-velocity system can cool a home quickly and evenly, while also managing humidity effectively. If you want modern comfort without compromising historic aesthetics, this system often feels like a natural fit.

What Is a Ductless Mini-Split System?

Ductless mini-splits take a different approach. Instead of pushing air through ducts, each indoor air handler mounts directly on a wall or ceiling in the space that you want to cool. The units connect to an outdoor compressor through small refrigerant lines that require only a narrow opening in the wall.

These systems allow for zoned cooling, so you can set different temperatures in different parts of the house. For older Maryland homes where household members may use certain rooms more than others, this flexibility can save energy and boost comfort. Since they don’t require ductwork at all, ductless mini-splits are well-suited for spaces where ducts simply do not fit.

Benefits of High-Velocity AC in Historic Homes

High-velocity systems bring several advantages to historic homes. First, the small ducts allow installation without major renovations. Our team at Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating can install ducts behind walls and around tight corners where a more traditional duct system could never work. This helps preserve the original structure of your home while still delivering whole-house cooling.

Another major benefit lies in the control of humidity. High-velocity systems move air at higher speeds, pulling more moisture from the indoor environment. Maryland’s humid summers can wreak havoc on woodwork, plaster, and furniture, but high-velocity air conditioners keep indoor humidity levels in check.

Aesthetics also matter. You may prefer the discreet look of small, circular vents that blend into ceilings or walls. Unlike bulky wall-mounted mini-split units, high-velocity vents remain almost invisible to the eye. Finally, these systems cool spaces quickly. By circulating air at higher speeds, high-velocity systems can achieve a consistent, comfortable temperature faster than many alternatives.

Benefits of Ductless Mini-Splits in Historic Homes

Ductless mini-splits excel in flexibility. Since each unit operates independently, you can cool certain rooms while leaving others out. If you use your upstairs bedrooms only at night, you don’t have to waste energy cooling your entire home during the day.

This zoning ability often translates into significant energy savings. If you are trying to balance rising utility costs, the ability to control cooling in specific rooms adds value. Installation also moves quickly and requires little disruption. We only need to drill small holes for refrigerant lines, avoiding major alterations to historic plaster or woodwork.

Ductless systems also provide heating in many models, offering a year-round solution. For historic homes that may lack modern heating systems, a ductless mini-split can serve as both an air conditioner and a heat source.

Comparing Costs and Efficiency

Cost often plays a major role in deciding between these systems. High-velocity systems typically cost more to install because of the specialized ductwork and labor involved. However, once installed, they cool efficiently and provide whole-home comfort.

Ductless systems usually cost less up front, especially if you only need to cool a few rooms. However, if you try to cover the entire home with multiple ductless units, costs can add up quickly.

In terms of efficiency, ductless mini-splits often prove to be the most effective option. Since they don’t lose energy through ducts, they can achieve higher SEER2 ratings and lower utility bills. Still, high-velocity systems hold their own, especially when humidity control enters the picture.

Preserving the Look and Feel of Historic Maryland Homes

Homeowners like you who live in Annapolis, Ellicott City, and Frederick often prioritize aesthetics when upgrading older homes. High-velocity systems usually preserve a more seamless look since their vents blend into the background. Ductless mini-splits, while sleek, remain visible on walls or ceilings, which may detract from historic interiors.

That said, you may not mind the appearance of ductless units, especially when balanced against the convenience of zoned cooling. Ultimately, your decision may depend on how much you value historic authenticity versus visible modern upgrades.

Which System Fits Your Maryland Home Better?

The best choice depends on your goals for your home. If you want a whole-home solution that remains discreet and manages humidity well, a high-velocity system may fit perfectly. If you prefer flexibility, lower upfront costs, and zoned control, a ductless mini-split could serve you better.

Your home’s specific layout will also matter. A rowhouse in Baltimore with limited attic space may benefit more from a ductless system. At the same time, a large historic home in Rockville might justify investing in high-velocity duct installation.

Why Professional Guidance Matters

Deciding between these systems is not always easy. An evaluation from our team at Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating can help you weigh your choices, taking your budget and comfort needs into consideration. Our technicians understand how to retrofit historic Maryland homes without altering their character, so you can enjoy comfort without compromise.

Trust Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating With Your HVAC Upgrades

Historic homes in Maryland require a lot of consideration when it comes to upgrading a cooling system. High-velocity air conditioners and ductless mini-splits can both be effective solutions for older homes. At Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating, we specialize in keeping historic properties comfortable. We provide installation, maintenance, and repair services.

Contact Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating today for a solution that preserves your historic home’s charm while keeping your family cool through Maryland’s hot, humid summers.

What Are the Costs and Benefits of a Unico High-Velocity AC in Maryland?

Written by Kevin on October 1, 2025. Posted in Cooling.

Living in an older home has its perks. Many of these residences feature architectural styles that have all but vanished from modern neighborhoods. They also often sit on larger plots of land located close to city centers. However, there are also some downsides.

If your home was built before the 1960s, for example, there’s a good chance it lacks built-in HVAC ductwork. This can pose a significant issue with comfort. The good news is that there’s a whole-home cooling option that works exceptionally well in older homes. It’s called a Unico high-velocity AC.

Here’s everything you need to know about the costs and benefits of installing an AC of this unique type.

What Is a Unico High-Velocity AC?

If you’ve never heard of a high-velocity AC system, you’ll find it’s precisely what its name suggests. Conventional central AC systems rely on large air ducts to carry sufficient air volume around a home. High-velocity systems, instead, use small, flexible tubing to transport air from a central unit to each room. What they lose in air volume compared to a conventional ducted system, they make up for in air velocity. In other words, they use powerful fans to push air through the tubing at high speed. That ensures every space in your older home gets the amount of cool air needed within a reasonable timeframe.

The Benefits of a Unico High-Velocity AC

Unico high-velocity AC systems have some significant benefits compared to traditional ducted AC. This is especially true when installed in an older home. Here are some of their most noteworthy advantages.

A Simplified Installation Process

The reason that you rarely see old homes retrofitted with ducted AC is that they lack the interior space to conceal ductwork. They may also have unique detailing, making it a challenge to cut into them. As a result, ductwork installation typically involves using tricks like boxed-in corners and soffits to create the necessary space. That significantly alters the look of the home and can cost quite a bit in the process.

High-velocity AC systems use flexible tubing that can be as small as 2 3/4-inches in diameter. You can route that tubing through virtually any wall or ceiling as easily as you can add electrical wiring. It also avoids the need to damage finished walls during the installation process. In an older home, the less you need to alter walls, ceilings, and floors, the better.

Superior Air Mixing

High-velocity AC systems deliver consistent cooling because of their superior air mixing capabilities. If you’ve ever owned a home with a ducted AC, you know they can produce hot and cold spots. That’s because the cold air coming from each vent may not reach every corner of each room. High-velocity systems don’t have that problem because they deliver cold air with more force. That increases the rate of air mixing, leading to more even temperature distribution.

Excellent Energy Efficiency

Another advantage high-velocity AC systems have over traditional ducted AC is superior energy efficiency. Conventional HVAC ducts tend to develop air leaks over time and allow convective losses. As a result, it isn’t unusual for ducted systems to suffer energy losses of up to 30% due to these issues.

High-velocity systems use tubing that’s virtually incapable of leaking unless physically damaged. It’s typically composed of spun nylon and enclosed in an aluminized Mylar outer wrap. That all but eliminates convective losses and prevents condensation from forming on the tubing.

Extended Equipment Lifespan

A high-velocity AC system and its network of tubing should last much longer than a conventional ducted AC system. Most Unico high-velocity AC systems will last about 20 years with proper maintenance. That’s about five years longer than the expected lifespan of a conventional AC. Plus, Unico tube ducts retain their integrity far longer than ordinary sheet-metal ductwork. Typically, you won’t need to replace your ducts when it’s time for a new AC.

Superior Humidity Control

Finally, a high-velocity AC system will do a better job of controlling indoor humidity compared to a traditional ducted model. That’s because they move less air all at once than an ordinary ducted AC. Ducted systems move approximately 400 cubic feet per minute (CFM) of air while in operation. High-velocity systems typically operate at about 200 CFM. That results in greater heat absorption, which also yields more condensation. So, the air coming from a high-velocity AC will be drier and up to 15 degrees colder than you’d expect from a ducted AC.

Whisper Quiet Operation

High-velocity AC systems have a reputation for being very quiet as long as they are installed properly. The multi-layer acoustic insulation that the ducting is wrapped in keeps air movement nearly silent. Installing additional outlets that balance air output can decrease noise levels substantially. This prevents any single supply run from running at too high air pressure.

Also, high-velocity systems tend to have more registers installed. This cuts back on the amount of air passing through that could potentially cause a whistling or whooshing sound.

The Drawbacks of a Unico High-Velocity AC

If the advantages of a Unico high-velocity AC have piqued your interest, there are some disadvantages you should also consider. Here are the drawbacks to be aware of.

Higher Upfront Cost

The biggest drawback associated with Unico high-velocity ACs is their cost. They can be more expensive than conventional ducted systems. However, if you need ductwork installed to support a central AC, the cost differences narrow. It’s also worth pointing out that the extended longevity and higher efficiency of a high-velocity system may make the lifetime cost of one lower.

Limitations in Larger Homes

Finally, Unico high-velocity AC systems may face some hurdles if you own a very large home. That’s because there’s a practical limit to the length of the supply run feeding the system’s vents. Depending on the layout of your home, it can be challenging to cover the entire space with a single system. However, it’s always possible to divide a home into multiple zones, served by smaller systems.

That can increase your upfront costs, however. It’s worth noting that ductless mini-splits, an alternative cooling option for older homes, suffer from similar limitations. An alternative system may not be adequate for helping to alleviate the problem.

Local High-Velocity AC Experts

If you own an older home in Hanover, MD that needs a new cooling solution, Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating can help. We can arrange a consultation to help you choose the system that best meets your comfort needs and budget. Our team of HVAC technicians has extensive training and years of on-the-job experience.

That includes working within the limitations of old homes all around our area. We’re also Better Business Bureau accredited with an A+ rating for your peace of mind. We can even offer you financing options on approved credit to help you afford the new AC your home needs.

When you need a new AC installed in your Hanover home, contact our team at Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating today.

Troubleshooting an AC compressor that won't turn on in Hanover MD.

Signs Of An AC Freon Leak You Shouldn’t Ignore

Written by Kevin on April 10, 2024. Posted in Cooling, HVAC.

Taking an air conditioner system for granted is normal for many people. When it’s properly working, you probably don’t think about it much. You enjoy the cool air in your home when it’s hot outside. However, it can become all you can think about when your AC stops working or has a severe problem.

Freon is a refrigerant, a chemical essential for your air conditioning unit to function properly. This gas repeatedly goes through an evaporation process inside your AC system. The constant evaporation cycle produces cool air that blows into your home. Under normal conditions, Freon is part of a closed system. When Freon leaks, your AC unit begins working poorly.

Catching a Freon leak early and contacting an HVAC technician to repair your AC is vital to your home’s comfort. Additionally, when you ignore a potential Freon leak, further damage can occur to your AC unit, leading to a more costly repair or replacement later. In this piece, we’ll cover 10 signs that your air conditioning system may have a Freon leak.

10 Common Signs of an Active AC Freon Leak

1. Hissing Noises or Bubbling Noises

One common sign that an air conditioning system is suffering from an active Freon leak is when you hear bubbling or hissing noises emanating from the indoor or outdoor cabinet. Because the refrigerant in your system is sealed under intense pressure, any structural puncture will force the gas to escape. The specific sound you hear depends entirely on the location of the breach, the line pressure, and the physical size of the hole. Smaller pinholes in the evaporator coil typically produce a persistent hissing sound, while leaks in liquid lines often result in a distinct bubbling noise.

2. Spikes in Your Monthly Electric Bill

The underlying symptoms of a refrigerant leak are not always immediately obvious. More noticeable system failures may not occur until the leak worsens over time. However, one early indicator you should always monitor is your monthly electricity bill. As Freon leaks out, the system’s cooling capacity drops. This forces the unit to run significantly longer cycles to reach the temperature set on your thermostat, wasting electricity. If you notice a drastic increase in your electrical costs without an increase in outdoor temperatures, a leak is highly likely.

3. Water Leakage Around the Unit

When an AC unit suffers from a refrigerant leak, it alters the pressure balance inside the system, causing the indoor evaporator coil to drop below freezing. As warm, humid indoor air passes over this freezing coil, the natural condensation freezes solid. When the system cycles off, this accumulated ice melts rapidly, overflowing the primary condensate drain pan. If you notice puddles forming around your indoor furnace closet or water actively dripping from your ceiling vents, you are witnessing the aftermath of a frozen system.

4. Insufficient Cooling

Capacity

While there are a handful of reasons an air conditioner might fail to lower your indoor temperatures, an unresolved Freon leak is one of the most common. When the physical volume of refrigerant inside your system diminishes, the heat-absorption process suffers. If you find yourself turning the thermostat down incredibly low, yet the air pushing out of your supply registers feels stagnant, and room temperatures refuse to budge, your system is likely starving for refrigerant. After a Freon leak is fixed, any necessary Freon that was lost from the system will need to be replaced.

5. Warm Air

Since Freon’s primary purpose is to absorb heat from your indoor air, a drop in your system’s Freon levels leaves that indoor heat trapped inside the loop. Instead of returning crisp, conditioned air to your living spaces, your system begins venting warm air back into your home. Note that if you just turned your system on, it may blow warm air for a minute or two as the lines pressurize, which is normal. However, persistent warm air means it is time to call a professional.

6. Rapid On-and-Off Cycling (Short-Cycling)

Modern air conditioning systems utilize built-in safety controls, such as low-pressure cutout switches, to protect internal machinery. When an active leak drops system pressure below safe operating parameters, the safety switch triggers, abruptly shutting the system down. As pressures briefly stabilize, the system attempts to restart, creating a rapid, repeating loop of on-and-off cycling. This behavior places immense mechanical stress on your system controls and can lead to electrical failure.

7. Evaporator Coil Ice Build-Up

When a system lacks proper refrigerant pressure, the internal temperature of the evaporator coil drops well below the standard $32^\circ\text{F}$ Fahrenheit freezing point. Ambient moisture from your home’s air freezes instantly upon contact with the metal fins, eventually encasing the entire coil in a thick block of ice. In extreme scenarios where the indoor air handler is positioned close to primary duct pathways, pieces of this ice can break away, shooting directly out of your home’s supply vents.

8. Unusual, Sweet Chemical Smells

Pure Freon refrigerant is naturally heavier than ambient air, causing it to sink quickly toward floor level when a leak occurs. While generally odorless in trace amounts, a significant structural leak can produce a distinct, slightly sweet, oil-like chemical smell. If you notice this unusual aroma lingering directly next to your outdoor condenser, near your indoor closet vents, or pooling along the floor around your equipment, your system requires immediate professional testing.

9. Health Problems & Symptoms

Inhaling concentrated refrigerant vapors can cause a variety of acute physical health issues. Prolonged exposure to leaking Freon gases within an enclosed household can cause respiratory irritation, sudden nausea, dizziness, and severe headaches. If anyone in your Hanover household regularly suffers from these specific symptoms exclusively when the cooling unit is operating, turn the system off immediately, open your windows, and seek professional medical guidance.

10. Complete System Failure

If an air conditioner is forced to overwork for months to compensate for a lack of refrigerant, the extreme operating temperatures will eventually cause complete system failure. When internal machinery is pushed past its structural limits, primary electrical relays fail, controls short out, or the system compressor locks up entirely. Catching a leak early prevents a standard line repair from turning into an expensive emergency system replacement.

Don’t ignore any signs that your AC system may be leaking Freon. If you experience anything mentioned in this article and you live in the Hanover area, Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating is here to help. We offer reliable heating, cooling, and plumbing services you can trust. To learn more, contact us today!

What To Do When Your AC Compressor Won’t Turn On

The outdoor compressor is the absolute heart of your air conditioning system, responsible for pressurizing and circulating refrigerant through your cooling lines. If your indoor blower fan is running but you notice your outdoor unit is completely silent and venting warm air, your compressor has failed to kick on.

If you find yourself facing this common cooling crisis, follow this troubleshooting sequence immediately:

Step 1: Verify the Thermostat Parameters: Double-check that your thermostat is set to “Cool” mode and that the target temperature is placed at least $3^\circ\text{F}$ below your current room temperature. If the thermostat display is completely blank, replace the batteries immediately.
Step 2: Inspect Your Electrical Panel: Go to your home’s main electrical breaker panel and check the dedicated, high-voltage dual-pole breaker labeled for the outdoor AC unit. If the breaker has tripped into the middle position, flip it completely to “Off” before resetting it back to “On.”
Step 3: Check the Outdoor Disconnect Box: Open the metal weatherproofing box mounted on the wall next to your outdoor unit. Ensure the high-voltage pull-out fuse block is firmly pushed into the “On” position. If your disconnect uses a traditional switch, verify it has not been accidentally flipped off.
Step 4: Clean a Clogged Air Filter: A heavily clogged, dirty air filter blocks all ambient airflow across your indoor evaporator coil, causing the system to freeze up completely. This triggers the low-pressure safety switches, shutting off power to the outdoor compressor to prevent liquid slugging. Replace your filter and let the system thaw for 4 to 6 hours.
Step 5: Listen for Humming Noises: Walk outside to your silent outdoor unit. If you hear a distinct, quiet humming sound coming from the cabinet but the fan and compressor refuse to spin, your system’s run capacitor has likely failed and will need to be replaced by an expert.

Dealing with an indoor system freeze that has triggered a water leak around your furnace or utility room floor? Don’t risk property water damage. Reach out to our certified team for professional sump pump repair in Hanover, MD, to safely clear the line overflow before it compromises your home’s foundation.

A Crucial Safety Warning Regarding Refrigerant Top-Offs

If your compressor won’t turn on due to a low-pressure safety lockout caused by a Freon leak, do not attempt to buy DIY refrigerant recharge kits. Adding refrigerant to a leaking system without finding and fixing the physical leak is illegal under EPA regulations and will cause severe, irreversible hydraulic damage to your compressor’s internal valves.

If you have completed basic electrical checks and your outdoor unit still refuses to run, turn the system off at the thermostat immediately to prevent internal motor burnout.

Schedule Certified Local Support

Don’t let an unresolved refrigerant leak or a failed outdoor compressor compromise your home’s safety and comfort. If you notice any of the warning signs outlined in this guide, our certified local HVAC technicians are here to help.

We utilize advanced electronic leak detectors and digital manifold gauges to locate system breaches accurately, patch lines safely, and restore your system’s factory parameters cleanly. Reach out to our customer service team today to book your comprehensive cooling system diagnostics or emergency repair visit!

7 Common Problems That Cause Musty ACs

Written by Kevin on January 18, 2024. Posted in Cooling.

Have you experienced a smell of stale food, mildew, or mold when you turn on your AC? Regardless of how you put it, you would agree that it is not a pleasant experience to have in your home.

The smell could indicate some underlying issues in your cooling system. Don’t ignore persistent musty odors, thinking that they are normal, or go the extra mile by masking the smell with air fresheners. The surest way to fix the problem is to get to its root. Track down the issue with the help of a qualified HVAC technician, as it is not only healthy but also adds comfort to your home and reduces the cost of HVAC repairs in the long run.

If you are wondering what could make your AC smell musty, there is no one cause. A variety of issues could cause it, so let’s look at some of the common causes that would make your AC emit such an undesirable odor.

1. Dirty Evaporator Coils

During the summer, your AC functions by removing humidity and heat from your home, resulting in a cooling effect. The role of the evaporator coil in the cooling system is to evaporate the moisture after absorbing the moisture and warm air indoors. It then cycles the air to bring back dry and cool air into your home.

If the evaporator coil is left dirty or frozen, it will not function optimally. This means that your house will retain humidity and warm air. The moisture will not evaporate; hence, it will remain trapped in your cooling system. The result is the eventual development of mildew and mold.

A professional technician has special tools that are effective in deep cleaning coils and disinfecting bioslime buildup without damaging the fins. If you have this problem, you can contact Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating to check the options available for your home.

2. Dirty or Leaky Air Ducts

As a homeowner in Hanover, the value of air ducts during the cooling season cannot be overemphasized. Air ducts are responsible for the circulation of air from your cooling system to all parts of your home. However, when mildew and moldy odors are trapped in the air ducts, they are also transported in the same manner as air to all parts of your house.

When you smell a moldy smell in your indoor air, hire a duct cleaning professional who can diagnose why exactly there is dirt circulating throughout your home. Read here to learn more about the benefits of frequent duct cleaning. Some of the particulates in your air may contain pollutants, diseases, growth, and allergens that can significantly impact the health of your family.

Here are some of the odor-causing things that can build up in your air ducts:

Pollen
Dust mites and dust
Fungi and fungal spores
End-products of tobacco smoke
Rodents and insects
Fecal matter
Mold
Pet dander

Ignoring the warning signs of the musty odor can expose you and your family to respiratory health problems and can worsen allergies and asthma attacks.

3. Excess Moisture in Vents or Ducts

One potential reason why you are smelling a musty odor in your indoor air is that there is excess moisture trapped in the vents or ducts of your cooling system. When humidity levels rise, moist air easily condenses on the cold ducts and vents, as they are made of metal. This results in the pooling of water, which then contributes to the buildup of mold, bacteria, and mildew behind the ceilings and walls. The result is nauseating fumes with a musty odor.

Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating can get your efficient humidity control services to help regulate indoor air moisture to prevent condensation. An HVAC professional will guide you on how to handle saturated insulation that could cause microbial growth behind walls.

4. Clogged Drain Pipe

A drain pipe helps drain water to the outdoor unit once it is collected in the drip pan. By its nature, a drain pipe operates in a moist and dark environment, which is a high-risk area for mold growth. The pipe is also vulnerable to clogging, which also results in a musty odor.

When dirt, debris, and algae clog the line, water backs up and leaks somewhere inside the pipes instead. This stagnant water breeds mold and bacteria, creating an unpleasant, decaying smell.

A professional HVAC technician has specialized tools that they use to dislodge the sticky mess. During installation, ensure that the drain line is capped outside to prevent re-entering more dirt.

5. Leaky Condensate Pan

If you notice that there is a puddle under your AC, it could mean that there is a crack or corrosion in the internal condensate pan. This is a common occurrence, especially for old cooling systems that have gone through constant condensation cycles. Mold grows as a result of water spilling through the pan to collect beneath your system and stagnate afterward, similarly to what may happen within your ducts if moisture is left unchecked.

6. Overfull Drip Pan

Your AC does not only help keep your home cool but also provides dry air by extracting moisture. The extracted moisture is collected in a drip pan.

In some instances, your drip pan could be damaged or corroded, which means that it cannot function as expected to extract and collect moisture from the air. Without anywhere to go, the moisture may build up in your cooling system. This will create an environment conducive to mold growth, resulting in a musty smell.

7. Oversized AC

Your home could smell musty because your air conditioner is too big for the space installed. This means that the AC will cool the air faster than it is intended to, which means it doesn’t dehumidify the air as well as the manufacturers specify. Hence, the remaining humid air will just circulate in your home. In such a scenario, without adequate ventilation to maintain the humidity levels, mildew and mold can grow, giving out an undesirable stench.

An oversized AC may increase your electricity bills while at the same time leaving your home smelling clammy and uncomfortable. We recommend talking to an HVAC technician to walk you through the journey of selecting the right size of AC according to your needs.

Breathe Fresh Air Today

Catching problems early can help you prevent simple issues from escalating into mold hazards or even causing total failure of your HVAC system. Don’t choose the wrong route by masking strange smells from your AC with scents and sprays. Instead, talk to Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating.

We have licensed HVAC technicians who will inspect your system and get to the root of the problem. We will get the musty smell out of your way as soon as we can, making sure you enjoy the comfort of an efficient HVAC system.

We offer heating and cooling services such as repair, installation, maintenance, oil-to-gas furnace conversion, and heat pumps in Hannover and the surrounding areas. We also serve to cool your house through AC repair, installation, maintenance, and mini-splitting. Other services we offer include indoor air quality, duct cleaning, and ductwork. Call us at Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating today!

Choosing the Best Spot for Your Home’s Thermostat

Written by Kevin on August 3, 2023. Posted in Cooling.

A thermostat acts as the central hub of your home’s heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, making decisions based on the temperature it senses in its immediate surroundings. A strategically placed thermostat facilitates accurate temperature readings, improving your comfort and potentially saving on your energy bills. External factors such as direct sunlight, air drafts, and furniture positioning can all influence the thermostat’s ability to register climate conditions accurately. Consider the following tips for finding the best spot for your home’s thermostat.

Central Location

The central location of your home typically represents the average temperature of the entire house, making it an ideal spot for the thermostat. If the technician positions the thermostat in the center of a room, it can easily sense and regulate the temperature throughout the home, providing consistent comfort.

This strategic placement helps eliminate hot and cold spots, creating a balanced and comfortable environment. In addition, centrally placing the thermostat can contribute to efficient energy usage, as it prevents the HVAC system from unnecessarily overworking. It’s important to ensure that the chosen central location is not exposed to direct sunlight or drafts, as these can affect the thermostat’s readings.

Away From Heat Sources

Heat emissions trick your thermostat into thinking that your home is warmer than it is, causing it to turn off the HVAC system prematurely. This can lead to inconsistent temperatures around the house, uncomfortable living conditions, and potential energy waste. For instance, if your thermostat is near a fireplace, the heat from the fire can cause the thermostat to read a higher temperature. As a result, during winter, the HVAC system might not heat your home adequately, leaving other rooms cold. Similarly, if the thermostat is close to kitchen appliances like ovens and stoves, it may register higher temperatures, causing cooling issues in summer. Your technician will be able to help you choose an appropriate place for the thermostat.

Avoid Drafty Areas

Drafty areas pose a challenge to the proper functioning of thermostats. These areas are usually found near doors, windows, or other openings that allow air to flow in and out of your home, creating a temperature fluctuation that can mislead the thermostat. If a thermostat is placed in such areas, it may sense this cooler or warmer draft as the home’s overall temperature, causing the HVAC system to overwork or underwork. Overworking can result in higher energy consumption and, consequently, inflated bills. On the other hand, an underworking unit can lead to discomfort as the heating or cooling in the home may become insufficient.

Consider an Interior Wall

Locating your thermostat on an interior wall can contribute greatly to its accuracy. Outdoor weather conditions can affect exterior walls, potentially leading to false readings. By contrast, interior walls are typically more representative of your home’s overall temperature. They are less likely to be affected by external weather factors such as direct sunlight or wind chill. Thermostats on interior walls can better regulate your HVAC system, ensuring a more comfortable and energy-efficient environment.

Most Used Room

Consider installing the thermostat in the room your family uses most frequently. This ensures that the space where you spend most of your time is always comfortable. The thermostat will take readings from this room, adjusting the HVAC system to keep this room’s temperature at your desired setting. Keep in mind, however, that different rooms may require different temperatures to provide optimal comfort. If your home is unusually large, it is possible to use more than one thermostat to get the desired effect.

5 Feet Above the Ground

Thermostats should be installed approximately 5 feet from the ground. This height is ideal because it reflects the temperature zone people inhabit, not the floor or the ceiling. Remember that heat rises and cool air falls. If a thermostat is installed too high, it will read the warmer air near the ceiling, causing the HVAC system to think your home is hotter than it is. Conversely, if installed too low, it senses the cooler air near the floor, tricking the HVAC system into thinking the house is colder than its actual temperature. This can lead to energy inefficiencies and uncomfortable temperature fluctuations.

Avoid Areas With Plumbing

Areas with plumbing fixtures can also lead to false thermostat readings. Hot water from these sources can register as your home’s temperature, causing the HVAC system to overcool or overheat your living space. To ensure accurate readings and efficient energy usage, installing the thermostat away from areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and any spot with hot water and steam is best.

First Floor in a Two-Story Home

The second floor is often naturally warmer than the first floor as heat rises. By placing the thermostat on the first floor, you ensure that the system doesn’t prematurely shut off before the lower level has properly warmed up, keeping an effective balance in temperature regulation. However, if there’s a significant temperature disparity between the floors, consider installing a second thermostat on the upper floor for more precise control. It is important to note that you should typically avoid placing the thermostat in a finished or unfinished basement. Basements can be drafty. Additionally, basements that are partially underground can lead to cooler temperatures that are not representative of the entire home.

Avoid the Empty Hallway

An empty hallway can be a tempting spot to install your thermostat, as it would appear to provide an unobstructed view of the average temperature in your home. Unfortunately, this area often doesn’t maintain a consistent temperature due to drafts from windows or outside doors. This makes it difficult for the thermostat to accurately measure the temperatures throughout your home, leading to inefficient HVAC system operation.

Keep the Thermostat Maintained

Once you’ve found the ideal spot for your thermostat, it’s important to remember that its accuracy can be affected by factors such as dust or dirt accumulation, low batteries, and extreme temperatures. Routine maintenance can ensure your thermostat is always functioning properly, so have a technician from Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating check on it occasionally and clean it as needed. Since the weather in Hanover, MD and surrounding areas can be unpredictable, having a properly functioning thermostat is essential to maintain comfortable temperatures in your home.

Contact Us

Choosing the perfect spot for your thermostat is a task that requires careful consideration. Location, drafts, and heat sources are all important factors in ensuring accurate climate control and energy savings. The team at Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating can help make sure you get it right by guiding you through the installation process and helping you pick out the best possible location so you can enjoy a comfortable and energy-efficient home. We offer dependable AC furnace and heat pump installations, repairs, maintenance, and tune-ups. Other licensed and trained professionals also offer indoor air quality and ductwork solutions. We have an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. Contact Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating today for all your HVAC service needs in Hanover, MD, and surrounding areas.

Making Your AC Unit Last Longer

Written by Kevin on July 24, 2023. Posted in Cooling.

As the sweltering heat of summer approaches, we rely on our trusty air conditioning units to keep our homes cool and comfortable. However, constant usage and inadequate maintenance can take a toll on these essential appliances, shortening their lifespan and leading to costly repairs or replacements. Fortunately, there are proactive steps you can take to help extend the life of your AC unit, ensuring its optimal performance and efficiency for years to come.

Regular Maintenance and Cleaning

Over time, dust, dirt, and debris accumulate on the various components of your AC unit, including the evaporator coils and air filters. This build-up restricts airflow and reduces the unit’s efficiency. By regularly cleaning these components, you allow your AC unit to operate at its full potential, reducing strain on the system and prolonging its lifespan.

A clean AC unit not only cools the air but also helps maintain a healthy indoor environment. When dirt and allergens accumulate in the system, they are recirculated throughout your home, negatively impacting air quality and potentially causing respiratory issues. Regular cleaning of filters and vents removes these contaminants, promoting cleaner and healthier air.

Likewise, regular AC maintenance and cleaning provide an opportunity to identify and address minor issues before they escalate into major problems. Our technicians can inspect your AC unit, check for leaks, test electrical connections, and lubricate moving parts. By catching and resolving issues early on, you can prevent costly repairs and extend the overall lifespan of your AC unit.

Additionally, a clean and well-maintained AC unit operates more efficiently, resulting in lower energy consumption. When your system is free from dirt and debris, it doesn’t have to work as hard to cool your home, leading to reduced energy bills. Regular maintenance and cleaning are, therefore, not only beneficial for your AC unit but also for your wallet.

Efficient Usage and Temperature Control

Setting your thermostat to an appropriate temperature can have a significant impact on your AC unit’s lifespan. Avoid extreme temperature settings as they force the unit to work harder and longer, leading to increased wear on the components. Instead, aim for a comfortable temperature that isn’t too demanding on the system, allowing it to operate more efficiently and reducing strain.

Equally, programmable thermostats offer a convenient way to regulate your home’s temperature, ensuring efficient usage of your AC unit. With programmable settings, you can adjust the temperature based on your schedule, allowing the unit to run less when you’re away or asleep. This not only saves energy but also reduces the overall workload on the AC unit, prolonging its lifespan.

Furthermore, proper insulation and sealing of your home are crucial for efficient temperature control. Insulating your walls, windows, and doors helps keep the cool air inside, reducing the workload on your AC unit. Additionally, sealing any air leaks or gaps prevents the infiltration of hot air, ensuring your AC unit doesn’t have to work harder to maintain the desired temperature.

Lastly, using ceiling fans can complement your AC unit’s cooling efforts by improving air circulation and creating a wind-chill effect. By utilizing ceiling fans, you can set your AC unit at a slightly higher temperature without sacrificing comfort. This reduces the strain on the AC unit and extends its lifespan.

Adequate Airflow and Ventilation

One of the first steps to ensure proper airflow is to keep the vents and registers unobstructed. Blocked vents restrict the flow of air, causing the AC unit to work harder to maintain the desired temperature. By regularly checking and clearing any obstructions such as furniture, curtains, or debris around the vents, you can allow unrestricted airflow and reduce strain on the system.

Another important aspect is to maintain a clean and debris-free outdoor unit. The outdoor condenser unit is responsible for releasing the heat absorbed from inside your home. If the unit is clogged with leaves, dirt, or other debris, it hampers the heat dissipation process, leading to reduced efficiency and increased strain on the system. Regularly inspect and clean the outdoor unit to ensure proper airflow and ventilation.

In addition to keeping the vents and outdoor unit clear, it’s crucial to have good indoor air circulation. Proper ventilation helps distribute the cooled air throughout your home, preventing hot spots and ensuring consistent cooling. Make sure that your home has adequate ventilation, such as open windows or functioning exhaust fans, to allow air to circulate effectively. This not only improves the performance of your AC unit but also helps maintain a comfortable indoor environment.

Consider the layout of your furniture and room arrangement. Blocked or obstructed air pathways can impede airflow and disrupt the efficiency of your AC unit. Arrange furniture in a way that allows air to flow freely, avoiding the blocking of vents or return air registers.

Filter Replacement and Indoor Air Quality

One of the primary functions of air filters is to protect the internal components of your AC unit from dust and debris. Over time, these filters become clogged with pollutants, reducing airflow and causing the system to work harder to cool your home. By regularly replacing the filters, ideally every one to three months, depending on usage and filter type, you ensure optimal airflow and prevent strain on the AC unit. This not only extends the lifespan of your AC unit but also improves its energy efficiency.

In addition to filter replacement, maintaining good indoor air quality contributes to the longevity of your AC system. When pollutants such as dust, pet dander, mold spores, or volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are present in the air, they can accumulate on the AC unit’s components, leading to reduced performance and potential breakdowns.

To enhance indoor air quality, consider using air purifiers, keeping your home clean and free of dust, and minimizing the use of products with harsh chemicals or strong odors. These measures help reduce the contaminants that can negatively impact your AC unit and its overall lifespan.

Professional Inspections and Repairs

Professional inspections provide an opportunity to identify any underlying issues that may be affecting the performance of your system. Maintenance plans from Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating can detect problems such as refrigerant leaks, clogged filters, or worn-out components that could lead to more significant malfunctions if left unaddressed.

Moreover, when a problem arises, it’s essential to address it promptly and accurately. Neglecting necessary repairs can lead to further damage, potentially shortening the lifespan of your unit.

By relying on Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating, you can have peace of mind knowing that your AC unit is in capable hands. We have the expertise, tools, and knowledge to fix issues correctly and prevent any unnecessary strain or damage to the system. We offer heating and cooling services such as furnace and heat pump repair, air conditioning installation and replacement, and indoor air quality solutions in Hanover, Maryland and the surrounding areas. You can trust our technicians to clean and tune up your system, ensuring that it runs smoothly and efficiently, saving you money in the long run.

At Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating, we also offer financial solutions with competitive interest rates to help you invest in the comfort of your home. Contact us today to learn more about us and the services that we offer in the Sandy Springs, Annapolis, and Hanover areas.

Reasons Your AC is Freezing Up and What to Do

AC Repair or Replacement? What to Consider

Written by Kevin on July 1, 2023. Posted in Cooling.

On a hot and humid summer day, you might look forward to relaxing in the air conditioning after work, or you may plan to spend a relaxing and cool afternoon at home. A malfunctioning air conditioner, however, can ruin your peace and comfort. When this situation arises, you’ll need to schedule an appointment for service and might need to decide if repairs are warranted or if it’s time to replace the air conditioner.

Professional Guidance

One of the best ways to know if you should repair or replace your air conditioning unit is to simply ask one of our team members. By doing so, you can get professional and honest guidance on which option is right for your home. You can also learn how much more life you might expect to get out of your unit if you opt for repairs instead of replacement. This information allows you to make a sound and informed decision.

Safety Concerns

Make safety a major priority when determining whether to repair or replace the unit. While some issues can be repaired, those fixes might only be temporary. In other words, the problem with safety may come back in a short while. Safety issues, such as electrical problems, that threaten the lives of you and your family warrant a replacement.

Unit’s Age

Another major determining factor is the age of the unit. Replacing a brand-new air conditioner, for example, is typically a frivolous expense. However, you should check if the unit is covered by warranty. In that case, getting a replacement without an additional charge is a possibility. Keep in mind that if your air conditioning unit is already quite old, replacement may be the best option. The unit may be eligible for repairs now, but that status could change soon.

Availability of Replacement Parts

If you have an older air conditioner, replacement parts might be more difficult to find and potentially costlier as a result. You can also ask the technician if the parts are likely to become more challenging or even impossible to procure in the future. Getting a new air conditioner could be the smarter idea so that you’re not in a situation where replacement parts are no longer available.

Status of Your Warranty

You should also check the status of your warranty when deciding between a repair and a replacement. Even when your unit doesn’t require massive repairs right now, you could end up having to pay large sums of money in the future if your warranty is expired. Starting fresh with a new unit and warranty could work well for your budget and your home’s comfort level.

Frequency of Maintenance

Take into account how diligent you’ve been in scheduling regular AC maintenance for your air conditioning. If many years have gone by without maintenance, it may be time to replace the unit to avoid having to deal with the problems that might have been building up.

Cost Considerations

If you’re like many homeowners, cost plays a significant role in any upgrades or replacements. Keep in mind that you should consider the long-term effects in terms of cost as well. For example, having the unit repaired is typically less expensive than purchasing a replacement. However, depending on the state of the unit, you might need to pay for repairs yet again shortly. In short, the unit might keep requiring repairs. Even though you will likely have to spend more money upfront for a replacement, you could save funds over time.

Major Repairs

When you’re thinking about the costs, you should also compare the price of major repairs to the price of a new unit. If your current air conditioner has issues with a big component, such as the compressor, the cost of the repairs might be high. Buying a new unit entirely might not be that much more expensive than repairs. When the prices are close together, consider the benefits of opting for the new unit.

Energy Efficiency

Our team members can also evaluate how energy efficient your current air conditioning unit is. If your air conditioner is using up an excessive amount of energy, getting repairs might not be worth it. Instead of putting money toward repairs, you could purchase a new unit that is more energy efficient. Opting for a more energy-efficient model can help you to save on monthly bills as well.

Indoor Air Quality

Poor indoor air quality can lead to or exacerbate health issues for you and your loved ones. Our staff members can conduct an indoor air quality check and determine if your air conditioner is contributing to any issues. In such cases, replacement may be the best option. Repairs might temporarily resolve the issues with air quality, but the hazards could soon return.

Comfort Level

Depending upon the age and condition of your air conditioner, the unit may simply not be able to function at maximum capacity. While the technicians might be able to make repairs to keep the unit safe and functional, the system could lack the ability to get your house as cool as you want the space to be. The purpose of an air conditioner is to keep you comfortable on hot days, and if the unit isn’t able to serve its purpose, replacement is likely the better option.

Future Housing Plans

You should also factor in how long you’re planning to live in the house. If you’re going to put the house on the market soon, spending the money on a brand-new air conditioning unit may very well not be worth it. Of course, you also have to consider the condition the unit is in. An air conditioning unit in bad shape might mean that your house is less attractive to potential buyers and that you can’t get the sale price that you want. Checking out comparable sales in the neighborhood can give you a sense of what choice makes the most financial sense.

Repairable Issues

Some issues with air conditioning units can be reasonably repaired. For example, the unit might have a minor leak that our team members can take care of. The unit might also have suffered minor physical damage during a storm or cold winter. In addition to getting the repair work done, you can also learn how to prevent these problems from happening again in the future.

At Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating, we serve heating and cooling needs in Hanover and the surrounding areas. We offer repair, replacement, and maintenance services for heating and cooling units. Our team members can also conduct an indoor air quality check and tackle ductwork projects. If you’re interested in furnaces, an oil-to-gas conversion or heat pumps, we can complete that work too. To schedule an appointment to improve your home, contact Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating today. You can also book an appointment online and get a virtual estimate.

5 Important Benefits of Preventive Air Conditioning Maintenance

Written by Kevin on June 15, 2023. Posted in Cooling.

During the hot summer weather, you rely on your air conditioner unit in order to keep your home or place of business comfortable and pleasant. If service issues arise, they can greatly inconvenience you and create costly repairs. However, just like routine maintenance for your vehicle, preventive air conditioning maintenance can help you ensure that your AC unit performs reliably and optimally. In the information below, we are going to outline five key benefits of preventive air conditioning maintenance. Let’s take a deep dive into the advantages that preventive air conditioning maintenance has to offer.

1. Saves Money

During the summer, your air conditioner can become one of the greatest contributors to a high energy bill. Moreover, the consistent use of your AC unit places a heavy load on the various mechanisms that allow your air conditioner to function. These components can be quite expensive, and if one of them breaks down, it can create a serious strain on your finances.

When you conduct regular preventive air conditioning maintenance, you can reduce your chances of a breakdown by 95%. This can create a sense of security that helps you protect your financial expenditures during the summer season. Moreover, preventive maintenance ensures that your HVAC system performs at peak efficiency. The US Department of Energy determines that efficient AC units can help you save up to 30% on your energy utility bill.

In addition to these benefits, HVAC manufacturers often require proof that your air conditioner receives routine maintenance. If you make a warranty claim without scheduling routine maintenance, you might have to pay for the repair or replacement out-of-pocket. Since many of your air conditioner’s components are expensive, you want to ensure that these components are covered by your warranty. Scheduling preventive air conditioning maintenance will help you keep these components covered by your warranty.

2. Improved Air Quality

Your air conditioning unit plays a heavy role in the quality of air that exists in your household or place of business. The EPA estimates indoor pollutant levels can be two to five times higher than outdoor pollutant levels. These common airborne agents can include dust, dust mites, pollen, pet dander, mold, and cigarette smoke in some cases. If your air conditioner unit doesn’t receive preventive services, it can impede the filtration of air and obstruct the flow of clean air into your indoor environment.

With preventive air conditioning maintenance, you can maintain cleaner air inside your indoor environment. The routine maintenance services will help you maintain clean ductwork that minimizes any chances of unwanted mold. Preventive maintenance technicians can also replace your filters if necessary, which is critically important to maintaining your air quality and to ensuring optimal performance from your AC unit. These measures not only help ensure that the air in your home or place of business remains clean, but they also help maintain the constant airflow that is necessary for peak performance.

3. Increases Equipment Life Span

Utilizing preventive air conditioning maintenance is the best way to ensure that you obtain maximum longevity from your HVAC system. If properly maintained, your HVAC system could last up to 20 years. The procedures that go into preventive air conditioning maintenance minimize the impact of the environmental stressors that your AC unit deals with. HVAC technicians will work to ensure that your AC unit is cleared of debris, dust, mold, and other unwanted agents that can increase the amount of wear and tear on your system. These simple but important procedures can help your air conditioner last as long as possible, ensuring that you get the most value and longevity from your AC system.

4. Lessens Environmental Impact

One of the key goals behind scheduling preventive air conditioning maintenance is to help your AC unit perform as efficiently as possible. Not only does this help reduce your energy costs and increase the life span of your air conditioner, but lowered energy consumption from your HVAC system also helps you minimize your carbon footprint throughout the summer season.

In addition to reducing your carbon footprint, you can work with your HVAC technician to discuss options that can allow you to utilize more environmentally friendly refrigerant options for your air conditioner. The EPA is focused on phasing out chemical agents that are harmful to the environment, and HVAC technicians are required to have an EPA Section 608 Certification for the controlled refrigerants they utilize. Upon request, your HVAC technician will inform you about the type of refrigerant you currently use, its impact on the environment, and any available changes you can make in the future.

5. Enhancing Reliability and Safety

With all of the aforementioned benefits, it’s easy to see how preventive air conditioning maintenance enhances the reliability of your HVAC system. Procedures such as ductwork cleaning help your air conditioner maintain even cooling of the air in your indoor environment. By maintaining cleanliness and updating the various mechanisms in your air conditioner unit, preventive maintenance ensures that you can rely on your HVAC system to keep your home or place of business comfortable.

The presence of excess debris and mold does not only compromise your air conditioner’s ability to properly cool your home, but it can also lead to problems that can have a greater impact on your home or place of business. The obstruction to airflow that dirty ducts and outdated filters produce can contribute to further problems such as water leakage. These issues not only present greater compromises to the performance of your air conditioner, but they can possibly harm the infrastructural integrity of your home as well.

While there are times when you will need to replace your air filters on your own, ductwork cleaning is best performed by your HVAC technician. Scheduling preventive air conditioning maintenance not only helps you keep your AC unit in optimal condition, but it can also help you protect your home from any collateral damage that it can receive from faulty air conditioner performance.

How to Schedule Preventive Air Conditioning Maintenance

Preventive air conditioning maintenance can be one of the most important decisions you can make for your home or place of business. It’s a relatively small investment that not only ensures optimal performance from your HVAC system, but it can also vastly improve your ability to maintain a safe, healthy and secure indoor environment. Considering all the benefits that preventive maintenance offers, we encourage you to contact us at Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating about our preventive maintenance services.

We specialize in providing Hanover, Maryland and its surrounding areas with thorough preventive air conditioning services that include inspection, filter replacement, ductwork cleaning, tune-ups and much more. We are here to inform you about any areas of concern that your unit might have and work closely with you to discuss the best course of action for upgrades, repairs and replacements. To get in touch with us at Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating, simply use our online contact form or call us by phone during our normal service hours.

3 Signs That Your Air Conditioning System May Need Repairs

Written by Kevin on June 1, 2023. Posted in Cooling.

When working properly, your AC should be able to easily keep your home fully cool on even the hottest days. An AC that won’t turn on or can’t keep your home cool is an obvious sign that the system needs to be repaired. It is also important that you watch out for these other issues as they are also good indicators that your AC needs to be repaired.

1. Screeching, Grinding, Rattling or Other Unusual Noises

Your air conditioning will always make some noise when it’s on. However, loud or unusual noises, whenever your AC is running, is usually a sure sign that the system needs some type of AC repair.

For instance, you may hear a loud screeching or squealing noise coming from either the outdoor AC unit or from the blower fan inside your home. If the noise is coming from the outdoor unit, it indicates that there is a problem with the unit’s fan motor. Most newer AC units have a direct-drive fan motor, which has internal bearings that allow it to spin. In this case, the screeching or squealing noise usually indicates that the bearings are worn out and need to be replaced. If your AC unit is much older, the fan motor is likely belt-driven. If you hear screeching or squealing coming from a belt-driven motor, it indicates that the fan belt is either worn out or misaligned. If you hear a screeching or squealing coming from the blower inside the home, it also typically means that either the bearings need replaced or the fan belt needs adjusted or replaced depending on whether the motor is belt-driven or direct-drive.

Your AC could also make a loud grinding noise that sounds like metal scraping against metal. If the noise is coming from the outdoor unit, it typically means that either the fan assembly is loose or one of the fan blades is misaligned. Both of these issues can cause the fan to scrape against the side of the unit and produce a loud grinding sound. Similarly, if the noise is coming from inside the home, it typically means that the blower is loose or misaligned and scraping against its housing.

Rattling noises coming from the outdoor AC unit often indicate that some component is loose and needs to be tightened or replaced. Another possibility is that one or more of the rubber isolation feet that the unit sits on has started to wear out. When this happens, the unit can become unbalanced and start to vibrate and make a loud rattling sound whenever it is running.

A humming noise coming from the outdoor unit is often a sign of a much more serious problem as it usually indicates that there is an issue with the AC compressor motor. This type of noise is definitely not something you want to ignore as it could lead to the compressor motor burning out if you continue to run your AC without having it inspected and the issue repaired.

You may also hear either the outdoor AC unit or the blower make a repeated clicking noise when it tries to start. If you hear this noise and the AC unit or blower won’t run, it indicates that the unit’s start capacitor has failed and needs to be replaced. The start capacitor stores a powerful electrical charge that it releases to essentially kick start the AC fan and compressor motor or the blower motor. If the capacitor fails, the unit typically won’t have enough power to start. A failed capacitor will almost always produce an audible clicking noise when the unit tries to run. You may also hear the motor make a humming sound along with the clicking noise, and this humming is a result of the motor trying to start on its own without the additional power supplied by the start capacitor.

A hissing or bubbling sound when your AC is running is also a serious problem you will want to have checked out immediately. In this case, it typically indicates that there is a refrigerant leak somewhere in the system.

2. AC Is Short Cycling

Short cycling is when an AC system turns on and then shuts back down before it completes a full cooling cycle, i.e. before it has fully cooled the home to whatever temperature the thermostat is set to. Even on mild days, it should still take your AC at least 15 minutes to complete a full cycle. If the unit only ever runs for five or 10 minutes, it is an obvious sign that something is preventing it from working correctly. When a unit is short cycling, it will also typically only stay off for a few minutes before turning back on again.

Short cycling is a serious problem as constantly turning on and off puts a lot of additional strain on the AC unit and will contribute to increased wear and tear on all of its components. If the unit continually short cycles, it can also drastically shorten its lifespan. Short cycling will also contribute to much higher energy costs. All AC units use around three to five times more energy when first starting up than they do when running. If the unit constantly cycles on and off multiple times in an hour, it will use far more energy than it would if it completed two or three full cycles in an hour as it should when working correctly.

Short cycling can result from a variety of different issues. One possibility is that the unit is oversized and too powerful for the home. An oversized AC will typically always short cycle, which means it will use much more energy and not cool as effectively as a properly sized unit. Unfortunately, the only solution to this problem is to have the unit replaced with an AC that is the proper size for your home.

Short cycling can also occur due to electrical issues such as frayed or damaged wiring or loose electrical connections. An AC can also short cycle due to overheating, as the unit will always shut down if it overheats to prevent possible damage to the compressor motor and other components. The only way to know for sure why your unit is short cycling is to have an AC technician fully inspect it.

3. AC Runs Continuously

If you turn your AC on when the temperature inside your home is more than 5 degrees higher than the thermostat setting, the unit may take up to an hour to complete a full cycle and cool the home to the desired temperature. However, your AC still should never run continuously for hours at a time. If the unit does start to run for much longer periods, you should first replace the air filter. A dirty air filter will restrict how much warm air can be drawn into the system and drastically reduce the rate of cooling.

If replacing the air filter doesn’t solve the problem, you’ll want to have your entire AC system inspected as soon as possible. This problem could mean that the blower motor is beginning to wear out or has some other issue that is preventing it from circulating enough air. Another possibility is that there are major leaks in the ductwork, which can also limit the blower’s ability to circulate sufficient air. The outdoor unit may also be overly dirty or clogged with debris, as this can prevent the unit from dispersing heat properly and lead to the refrigerant temperature staying too high for the system to cool effectively.

At Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating, we work on all AC makes and models and our team can help you overcome most all AC issues. We specialize in HVAC repairs and maintenance as well as air conditioning and heating installations, and we can also help if you need any heating, ductwork or indoor air quality services in the Hanover area. Give us a call today if you need AC repairs or if you have any questions.

Is Regular AC Service Essential to Keep My Warranty Active?

Written by Kevin on May 10, 2023. Posted in Cooling.

If the air conditioner in your Hanover, MD home ever malfunctions or fails, it could be costly to repair or replace. However, if you have an active manufacturer warranty, you may be able to sidestep the cost of repairs entirely. In most cases, to ensure that warranty protection is always available, you must schedule regular AC service with a licensed professional. Read on to find out why and to learn more about keeping your warranty valid.

Air Conditioner Warranties Are Two-Party Agreements

Equipment warranties are easy to overlook. Whenever you receive one with a purchase, you may simply tuck the related documentation away until you need to file a claim. However, product warranties aren’t just promises and provisions from manufacturers to consumers. Instead, they are mutually binding agreements. Just as they list the warranty protections offered by the manufacturer, these contracts also lay out the terms and conditions that consumers must adhere to.

Many air conditioning equipment manufacturers require a professional tune-up every 12 months to keep the equipment warranty active. Homeowners are often advised to schedule their annual AC maintenance just prior to the warm weather to optimize the benefits of this service. When you read through your warranty documents, you’ll likely find that your air conditioner manufacturer has strict guidelines for filter changes, HVAC air duct maintenance, and other preventative maintenance tasks.

Other Warranties Requiring Annual AC Service

Scheduling annual air conditioner maintenance isn’t just necessary for preserving your AC manufacturer warranty. These services are also a common requirement in home insurance policies and home service agreements. If you purchased a home warranty that covers your HVAC system, your home warranty company could request documented evidence of yearly tune-ups when processing your claims. Many home insurance companies make similar requests. Home warranty providers and insurance companies can deny claims outright if AC inspections uncover proof of general neglect.

Understanding Your Warranty Coverage

Product manufacturer warranties cover AC repair and replacement costs when air conditioner problems result from substandard manufacturing practices or defective materials. Home insurance plans may pay for air conditioner problems resulting from floods, lightning strikes, fires, and other covered perils.

If you have an older air conditioner, a home warranty agreement may cover age-related issues. It might even cover the entire replacement cost when your air conditioner reaches the end of its lifespan. Together, these three protections can help you avoid overwhelming out-of-pocket spending throughout the lifetime of your cooling system. Thus, paying for an annual tune-up service to maintain compliance with these agreements is worth the cost.

How Product Manufacturers Know When Annual AC Service Has Been Skipped

Professional AC tune-up service is a strategic requirement for insurance companies and warranty issuers. After all, annual AC maintenance is the best way to reduce the likelihood of claims. Air conditioners that are professionally maintained have few to no airflow issues, perform more efficiently, and sustain much less wear and tear than ill-maintained cooling systems. All of this leads to a longer lifespan for the system.

Having to file frequent claims with home service companies, product manufacturers, or home insurance companies is often an indication of insufficient maintenance. If you have a relatively new air conditioner and have two repair issues during the same cooling season, your warranty issuer will probably request a copy of your maintenance records. In fact, each time you file a claim, there is always the likelihood of having companies request this documentation.

Even when presenting maintenance records isn’t a requirement for claim processing, warranty issuers and home insurance companies still have ways of verifying that homeowners have been compliant. When approving payment for warranty repairs or covered replacements, the notes that HVAC service providers supply are carefully reviewed. If the HVAC company that performs your AC repair discovers a thick build-up of lint-like debris on your air filter, in your HVAC air ducts, or in your home’s air vents, they will report this information as required. Conditions like these develop and fester when homeowners fail to change the filter often enough and aren’t scheduling regular tune-ups with a professional HVAC technician.

Other Common Situations That Void AC Warranties

Reading and understanding your warranty agreements completely is the best way to keep their available protections intact. Not only do these documents detail the exact requirements for equipment maintenance, but they also help consumers avoid common and incredibly costly missteps. Other conditions that insurance companies and warranty issuers require may include:

Licensed HVAC companies to install all AC equipment
Air conditioners to be sized properly for their service areas
All system repairs to be performed by licensed HVAC professionals

You may even discover that making equipment upgrades, performing repairs with generic parts, and adding certain integrated accessories require special permissions. Many equipment modifications are outright prohibited by these contracts.

One all-too-common mistake homeowners make is letting minor AC problems fester before scheduling repair service. This could be as simple as ignoring strange sounds or odors while your air conditioner is on, neglecting to report hot or cold spots in your home, or continuing to use your air conditioner even though it’s rapidly cycling off and on.

How to Avoid Out-of-Pocket Expense for Annual AC Tune-Up

The good news is that annual AC tune-up service might not require any out-of-pocket spending on your end. For instance, if you have a home service agreement, this plan could cover the cost of one annual service visit. Your home insurance plan might also cover a yearly tune-up.

Cut Costs With an HVAC Preventative Maintenance Plan

Another way to cut the costs of mandatory AC service is by investing in a preventative maintenance plan. These annual plans often include free service visits, priority scheduling, and discounts on equipment repairs. At Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating, our preventative maintenance program includes loyalty credits, priority service, a bi-annual check-and-clean service, and up to 15% off most AC repairs. Best of all, our clients can book service online and pair these discounts with our coupons and other seasonal savings.

A preventative maintenance plan makes getting regular tune-up service and timely repairs much cheaper. It will also make it easier to stay compliant with warranties and home insurance policies. When you join our service club, you will get early reminders when the time to schedule service is drawing near. You can also work with us to track the lifespan of your cooling equipment and make advanced preparations for replacement before you need a new AC system.

At Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating, we are proud to serve the residents of Hanover, MD and the surrounding areas. In addition to furnace, heat pump, and air conditioner services, we also offer custom ductwork, whole-house humidifiers, and advanced indoor air quality solutions. Our experts will help you navigate the world of warranties to determine which HVAC products suit your needs. To schedule your annual air conditioner tune-up service or learn more about our preventative maintenance plan, get in touch with Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating today!