Gas furnaces run for months at a time, and they need regular cleaning and maintenance to provide reliable heating for your home. Hiring a professional for a furnace tune-up and cleaning is a great way to take care of your furnace before the winter season. A professional furnace cleaning ensures your furnace runs efficiently, reduces the chance of an emergency repair, and extends the lifespan of the unit.
The average cost of a professional furnace tune-up is between $100 and $200. The final cost will depend on the size of your furnace, fuel type, age, and level of service required. Click here to see what you can expect from a furnace tune-up.
We highly recommend hiring a professional to clean your furnace, but if you are in a pinch or would like to clean your furnace in between professional tune-ups, here’s how. If this is your first time cleaning your furnace, we strongly recommend consulting with a professional!
Note: Before you start taking your furnace apart, always make sure you shut the power off from the breaker box and shut the gas valve.
Replace the Filter
The simplest way you can—and should—prepare your furnace for the winter season is by replacing the filter. A dirty filter will inhibit airflow making your unit work harder to heat your home. A dirty filter will also not clean the air properly, creating dust and debris buildup and increasing your chances of needing a repair.
Clean the Blower Unit
This is one of the more complicated parts to clean in a furnace, and we strongly recommend leaving this to a professional. The blower motor has counterweights and wiring that are easy to disturb and this is one of the more expensive pieces to replace.
To clean the blower unit yourself, remove the control panel if it is in the way, then carefully remove the blower unit. Gently vacuum all dust and debris and use a small stiff brush to remove tough deposits of dirt. It’s important to clean the blower unit slowly and evenly.
Clean the Pilot or Igniter
Using compressed air or a drinking straw, carefully blow any dust off the pilot. If you have a newer furnace, you may have a hot surface igniter. Use condensed air or a straw to remove any dust, but do not touch this part as it is very fragile.
Clean the Flame Sensor
A furnace flame sensor is very important for safe operation of your furnace. The flame sensor detects the presence of a flame when the gas is on, then shuts down the system if no flame is detected.
Located on the burner assembly, it looks like a metallic rod. The flame sensor can be pulled down and out of the bracket gently for cleaning. Take an emery cloth and gently clean the surface of the flame sensor. Then slide the part back into place.
When you get a tune-up and cleaning from a professional, they will also check for any necessary repairs. This will reduce the chances of you needing an emergency furnace repair and ensure your furnace is running at peak performance.
In need of a furnace tune-up and cleaning in the Denver Metro Area? Grand Home Services is located in Aurora, Colorado and provides HVAC services throughout Denver. Call or contact us online today!
4 Furnace Noises and What They Mean
There are a number of furnace noises that are normal, especially when the furnace is just starting up. But, if the noises are excessive, loud, or out of the ordinary, we recommend shutting off the unit and calling a professional. Here are 4 common yet problematic furnace noises and what they typically mean.
1. Loud bang or boom
A loud bang or boom should never be coming from your furnace. This sound may be caused by your furnace having trouble igniting, creating a gas buildup in the combustion chamber which causes a small gas explosion when the furnace finally ignites. A gas burner that is having trouble igniting is an indicator of a clog, gas pressure problem, or a very dirty furnace. This is not something you should try fixing yourself. If you hear this noise, shut off your furnace and contact a licensed technician.
2. High-pitched squealing
If your furnace is making a high-pitched squealing noise, this is usually an indicator of a worn-out blower motor bearing. The bearings wear out from continuous friction from the blower motor during operation. High-pitched squealing can also be caused by insufficient lubrication or a damaged belt. Compared to other furnace repairs, these repairs are pretty minor and inexpensive, but if you are not familiar with the tools or equipment, call a professional.
3. Rattling or rumbling
A loose or broken part inside of your furnace will create a rumble or rattle. As this broken or loose part bangs into other components inside the furnace, it will cause more damage and require additional repairs. Be sure the cause is not as simple as a loose door cover, and if not, shut the system off and call for a furnace repair. Even if you know how to replace the broken part, it is best to get a full unit inspection.
4. Whistling
When your filter is dirty and the airflow running through your furnace is restricted, the air may make a whistling sound as it passes through the narrow openings. This not only creates an annoying sound, but your furnace must work much harder to reach your desired temperature. You’ll be paying a higher-than-necessary utility bill and you are shortening the lifespan of your unit. Always be sure to replace the filter as often as the furnace manufacturer recommends.
Loud or odd noises coming from your furnace are rarely a good thing. It’s always best to heir on the safe side and talk to a professional HVAC specialist. Grand Home Services in Aurora, Colorado provides furnace inspections, repair, cleaning and replacement services throughout the Denver Metro Area. Whether it is an emergency or you need some guidance, do not hesitate to reach out to us! Contact us online or call us today.
My Furnace is Running but Not Heating
Is your furnace running but not creating warm air and heating your home? If so, below is a list of possible culprits that you can check yourself before calling an HVAC technician. Some of these you can fix yourself, others you will need to consult a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It might seem too simple, but if your furnace is not creating heat, always start with checking the thermostat. The batteries might be dead or an adjustment could have been made without you knowing and the fix is as quick as a setting change.
Check the Filter
A dirty filter can wreak havoc on your furnace. Not only will it obstruct airflow, but it will not clean the air before it runs through the unit and inhibit the unit from doing its only job. If your filter is dirty, replace it or clean it and test your furnace.
Inspect the Pilot Light
Gas furnaces rely on a standing pilot light to operate. If the pilot light somehow goes out, the fan may run but the furnace will not warm the air. If you don’t see a blue flame near the bottom of your furnace, you will need to access the reset switch and use a lighter to light the pilot again. If this happens multiple times, you should call an HVAC pro.
Check the Condensate Line
High-efficiency or condensing furnaces produce condensation during combustion. This excess moisture falls onto a drip pan and is drained outside of the home through a condensate line. These condensate lines can become clogged with dirt and grime, especially if you do not keep up with furnace maintenance and filter changes. If the line becomes blocked, the water will end up back in the furnace, which will trip the overflow kill switch and shut down your furnace. Your furnace will either not turn on or simply blow cold air.
Inspect the Burners
The burners on gas furnaces are responsible for delivering and adjusting the flow of gas to keep it lit when running. If your furnace has not been cleaned in a while, dirt and debris can collect on the burners, preventing your furnace from getting enough gas to burn and warm the air. This is a fairly simple repair, but always consult a professional if you are not familiar with the equipment.
In many cases, cold air blowing through your vents is an easy problem to fix that you can do yourself. If you cannot figure out why your furnace is running but not heating the air, it is time to call an HVAC expert to diagnose your furnace.
In need of a furnace diagnosis, cleaning, repair or replacement? Grand Home Services in Aurora provides all these services and more throughout the Denver Metro Area. Call us or contact us online today!
When to Call for an Emergency Furnace Repair
Furnaces are complex systems that need repairs and tune-ups from time to time, but every so often the unit needs immediate attention. When there is an issue with your furnace, it can be stressful trying to figure out if this is something you can fix yourself, something only a professional can handle, or—worst-case scenario—an emergency.
Below are some common situations in which you should call for an emergency furnace repair. When in doubt, always call an HVAC specialist.
Your Furnace Won’t Turn On or Blows Cold Air
Complete furnace breakdowns occur when you cannot get your unit to turn on or blow warm air. If your furnace isn’t working, you should immediately check your circuit breaker and your thermostat. If your unit is receiving power and the thermostat is set higher than the ambient temperature of your home, it’s a situation where you should call for an emergency furnace repair. The longer you wait, the more uncomfortable your home will become, especially here in Aurora, Colorado where we reach below freezing.
Unusual Noises
If your furnace is making unusual noises, especially loud noises, shut the unit off immediately and call for an emergency repair. Unusual noises typically mean a part is loose or broken and needs to be replaced. Letting the furnace run with a broken part could cause much more damage and a much higher repair bill.
Gas or Carbon Monoxide Leak
If you smell gas or your carbon monoxide detectors are going off, this is an emergency that needs to be taken care of immediately. This is not something you should take care of yourself. Call the fire department to come take care of the problem.
Another indication of a carbon monoxide leak is a yellow flame in your furnace (the flame should be blue). A yellow flame does not always mean a carbon monoxide leak, but it is still a reason to shut off the unit and call for an emergency furnace repair.
Electrical Issues
If you suspect an electrical problem, you should not wait to call a professional. Some common signs of a furnace electrical problem are a tripped breaker, a buzzing or humming sound, or a flickering/dim pilot light. Electrical issues are very serious and not something you should attempt to take care of yourself. There is a risk of a serious home electrical issue like a blackout or fire. An HVAC contractor has the experience and the technical knowledge needed to identify and fix the problem.
If you are near Grand Home Services in Aurora, please give us a call. We offer 24/7 furnace emergency repair services throughout Aurora and the Denver Metro Area.
5 Ways to Prepare Your AC for Summer
Your air conditioner will likely work when you turn it on for the first time in months, but that doesn’t mean you should do nothing and leave it be. When your air conditioner sits for months, dust and debris collect and that should be cleared before it runs consistently. This ensures the unit runs at peak efficiency, prevents unnecessary repairs, and extends the lifespan of the unit.
Below are 5 ways to prepare your air conditioner for summer. If you aren’t comfortable taking care of any of these steps or need some extra guidance, always call a professional!
1. Safety First
Before you do anything, make sure to cut the power to the air conditioner. This ensures the unit does not turn on when you’re working on it, keeping you and the unit safe. Most air conditioners have a switch near the outdoor unit, usually in a metal box.
2. Clean or Replace the Filters
At an absolute minimum, your AC filter needs to be changed before the summer season. Changing your filter before the season will undoubtedly lower your energy bill. These filters are very inexpensive and could be saving you hundreds of dollars per season. In addition, changing your filters on a regular basis prolongs the lifespan of your system, prevents breakdowns, and keeps your AC unit and vents clean.
3. Clean and Clear Debris
While our winters are quite mild here in Aurora, Colorado, it is inevitable our outdoor units will accumulate leaves, dust and debris throughout Winter. It is very important you clear any debris that may get into the unit. You can spray the sides of the unit and the area around the unit with a hose, wipe the fan blades with a damp rag, and vacuum the coils with a vacuum brush attachment. This simple step will keep your unit running efficiently and help prevent a freeze-up.
4. Program your Thermostat
Another great way to get your air conditioner ready for Summer is to program your thermostat beyond simply setting the temperature. It’s best to set the temperature a few degrees higher during the day, helping your unit not work so hard to cool your home when the outdoor temperature is at its highest. Many thermostats now allow you to set an “away” temperature, which should be a few degrees higher than your “day” temperature. This can be used when you are gone for days at a time, or even during a normal weekday when no one is home.
5. Talk to a Pro
While this is not absolutely necessary, it is always a good idea to have a professional inspect, clean and tune-up your AC unit. A professional HVAC technician will ensure the unit runs at peak efficiency throughout the summer season and does not need any repairs. Even better, they can provide tips on maintaining the unit yourself.
Here in Colorado, we experience some very high temperatures and really put our air conditioners to the test. Make sure your AC unit is ready for Summer! Contact Grand Home Services online or give us a call for an AC tune-up, cleaning, or even emergency repair. We are located in Aurora and service the Denver Metro Area.
5 AC Problems Caused by a Dirty Filter
We are sure you’ve heard it before: change your AC unit filter on a regular basis! After all, it’s a quick and inexpensive task, but many don’t quite understand how important a clean filter is for your entire system.
Simply put, a dirty AC filter inhibits your air conditioner from doing its one job. If left long enough, a dirty filter will wreak havoc on your AC unit and cause system breakdowns and expensive repairs that could have been avoided. Below we walk through 5 very common AC problems caused by a dirty filter.
Freeze-Up
When your air conditioner’s filter fills with dust and debris, the air flowing through your unit is no longer as clean as it should be. This results in a buildup of dust on the evaporator coil which leads to the coils freezing up. Eventually the coils defrost, water leaks from the unit, and the process starts over.
If your unit experiences a freeze-up, we recommend getting an AC unit inspection and cleaning. Though the initial culprit was a dirty filter, your unit must be cleaned to fix this issue.
Short-Cycling
(new article: why does my AC keep turning on and off)
When your filter is dirty and the airflow through the unit is inhibited, your air conditioning system must work harder than normal to reach your set temperature. This overworking can cause the unit to freeze-up or overheat, both of which can force your unit to shut off prematurely and short-cycle.
Higher Utility Bill
A dirty filter restricts the airflow through the unit causing your unit to overwork to reach your desired temperature. This will cause your AC unit to run more often and longer than necessary, raising your monthly utility bill.
Shorter Lifespan
When a manufacturer provides the typical lifespan of their AC unit, this comes with the expectation that the unit is properly maintained. An overworked, poorly maintained unit is bound to have a shorter lifespan. If you neglect to change your AC filter, your unit must work harder than necessary, increasing wear and tear. Even worse, dust and debris can cause a system failure, forcing you to buy a new AC unit.
Failed Compressor
One of the most expensive repairs your AC unit might require is a compressor replacement. When your unit is dirty, your compressor is taking the brunt of the extra workload. This will eventually lead to the compressor overheating and failing, requiring a replacement. Due to the cost, many HVAC contractors recommend replacing the entire AC unit. Many times, this expensive repair can be avoided with a cheap filter replacement!
Not sure what filter you need or how often you should be replacing your filter? Check out our articles below. Always refer to your AC unit’s manufacturer recommendations and speak with an HVAC professional if you have questions.
https://grandhomeservicesllc.com/the-4-types-of-hvac-filters/
https://grandhomeservicesllc.com/how-often-should-i-replace-my-air-filters/
In need of an AC unit inspection, cleaning, repair, replacement, or just have a question? Grand Home Services in Aurora, Colorado provides air conditioning services throughout the Denver Metro Area. Call us or contact us online today!
Why Does My AC Keep Turning On and Off?
If your air conditioner is switching on and off more than usual, it is important you get it fixed as soon as possible. An AC unit repeatedly switching on and off will raise your monthly bill, cause extra wear and tear on the unit itself, shorten the lifespan of the unit and create the need for more repairs.
Fortunately, the cause of a short-cycling AC unit is often a quick fix. Below are the most common reasons your air conditioner constantly turns on and off, a few of which you can check and even fix yourself. When in doubt, call a professional!
1. Thermostat Problems
One of the most common culprits to a short-cycling AC unit is a faulty thermostat. Your thermostat is in charge of telling your air conditioner when to run, so if your AC unit is turning on and off more than usual, always check the thermostat first. The issue could be electrical, meaning the thermostat is wired improperly or needs new batteries. It could also be due to poor thermostat placement. Your thermostat should be placed somewhere where it will get the best possible temperature reading. If it is near a window, warm room, or air vent, the thermostat is receiving an inaccurate reading.
2. Dirty Filter
Another common culprit with a simple fix is a dirty filter. A dirty filter restricts airflow which makes the AC unit work harder to reach your desired temperature. This can cause the unit to freeze-up or overheat and shut off prematurely. Make sure you change your filter as often as the AC unit manufacturer recommends. A dirty filter causes many more problems than this one!
3. Frozen Coils
If your evaporator coils are caked in dirt and debris or you have a refrigerant leak, your coils will freeze-up and cause the AC unit to shut off. Oftentimes, the AC unit will sporadically turn on and off as it attempts to regulate the pressure and reach your desired temperature. If you suspect a refrigerant leak, shut off the unit and call for a repair immediately.
4. An Oversized AC Unit
Many are surprised to learn that a larger-than-necessary air conditioner is not what you want. If your unit is too large for your square footage and climate, it will unevenly cool your home and turn on and off too frequently. A short-cycling unit uses more energy, will require more repairs, and will have a shorter lifespan, all of which cost you more money.
If you aren’t sure why your AC is repeatedly turning on and off, always call a professional. This short-cycling is causing unnecessary wear and tear on the unit, and it could be the result of something more serious like an electrical problem.
In need of an AC repair? Grand Home Services in Aurora provides air conditioner repair, inspection, and replacement services throughout the Denver Metro Area. Call us or contact us online today!
4 Common Air Conditioner Smells & How to Fix Them
Is your air conditioner releasing a bad or weird smell into your home? What does it mean, and can you fix it yourself? Below we walk through 4 common smells that might be coming from your air conditioner, what it means, and whether it is cause for concern. As with all HVAC questions or concerns, always call an HVAC technician if you are unsure!
1. Rotten Eggs
If you smell sulfur or rotten eggs, that almost always means there is a gas leak in your house. Natural gas is odorless, but gas companies add the smell so you know when there is a leak. The gas reduces oxygen levels in your body which can be fatal. It can also catch fire and explode. If you suspect a gas leak, turn off your gas supply immediately and call your local fire department.
2. Burning
If you just turned on your air conditioner for the first time in several months and it smells like something is burning, this could be dust burning. Wait a few minutes to see if the smell dissipates. If it does not go away, the burning smell could be a mechanical problem and a fire hazard. Switch off the system immediately and call an HVAC technician for an emergency repair.
3. Gunpowder
The smell of gunpowder is associated with electrical odors. This odor is very distinct and should never be ignored. It is likely caused by a fried fan motor or circuit board. No matter the culprit, you will need to get your AC repaired before using it again. Switch off the system and call an HVAC technician for a repair before turning on the unit again.
4. Mold or mildew
Smelling mold or mildew when your air conditioner switches on is quite common. When your air conditioner cools the air, condensation builds up and needs somewhere to go. If your condensate drain line is clogged, this moisture has nowhere to go, allowing mold and mildew to grow in the unit and in your ductwork. Shut off your unit and check the drain line and indoor AC unit for mold and mildew. You can unclog a drain line and clean an AC unit yourself, but if you have never done this before, we recommend calling a professional.
There are a variety of less-common odors that can come from your AC unit, including chemical smells, exhaust, or something that just smells terrible. Always turn off your unit if you think something is wrong and call for an AC unit inspection and repair. Allowing your unit to continue to run could be damaging the unit itself and be hazardous to your health.
Need an air conditioner inspection, repair, or replacement? Grand Home Services in Aurora, Colorado provides these services throughout the Denver Metro Area. Contact us online or call us today!
Why is my air conditioner leaking water?
Why is your air conditioner leaking water, and what are you supposed to do? Water leaking from your AC unit can cause a lot of damage, so it’s important you address the issue and fix it as soon as possible.
When your air conditioner cools warm air, condensation builds on the evaporator coils and drips into a drip pan. This drip pan leads to a condensate drain line that drains the water outside of your home, so you should not have any water leaking inside.
As with any home appliance, sometimes something goes wrong. For air conditioners, it is not uncommon for water to be leaking from the unit. Below are 3 common culprits that cause your air conditioner to leak water inside the home and what you should do to resolve the problem.
Your filter is dirty
If your air filter is very dirty, your air conditioner will have trouble pulling air through the filter and into the unit which means less air is moving over the evaporator coils. As a result, the coils become too cold and freeze. As these frozen coils defrost, the ice melts and an unusually large amount of water drips into the pan causing it to overflow and leak into your home. Make sure to replace your filter as often as the AC unit’s manufacturer recommends.
Your unit is low on refrigerant
When your air conditioner turns on, the refrigerant starts running through the evaporator coils making them very cold. If the refrigerant is low, there is less heat being absorbed and the coils get too cold and freeze. The refrigerant runs through a closed system, so if your refrigerant is low, this means there is a leak.
This is not something you can repair yourself. You should turn off the AC unit and call for a repair immediately. If you see that the coils are frozen, keep an eye out for leaking water while it defrosts.
Your condensate drain line is clogged
As your air conditioner creates condensation during the cooling process, it drains through the condensate drain line. If this drain line gets clogged, the water has nowhere to go and will leak from the unit inside your home. A clogged drain line can be caused by a dirty filter, debris in the drain line or lack of maintenance to the unit.
You can unclog the drain line yourself by turning off the unit and using a thin wire brush to break up the clog. You can also use your wet/dry vacuum to suck out any debris or flush the drain line with distilled vinegar. If you can’t get the drain line unclogged yourself, always call an HVAC professional!
Denver Air Conditioner leaking water?
Is your Denver air conditioner leaking water? Grand Home Services has seen this problem before and is here to help you solve the problem. We are located in Aurora and provide air conditioner cleaning, repair and replacement services throughout the Denver Metro Area. Call us at 720-365-1187 or contact us online to schedule an AC repair in the Denver Metro Area today!
My Air Conditioner is Running but Not Cooling
Is your air conditioner running but not lowering the temperature in your home? If so, below is a list of possible culprits that you can check yourself before calling an HVAC technician. Some of these you can fix yourself, others you will need to consult a professional.
Thermostat
It might seem too simple, but always start with checking the thermostat. An adjustment could have been made without you knowing and the fix is as quick as a setting change.
Filter
A dirty filter can wreak havoc on an air conditioner. Not only will it obstruct airflow, but it will inhibit the unit from doing its only job and not clean the air before it runs through the unit. This will make the rest of the components dirty and could cause your coils to freeze. If your filter is dirty, replace it or clean it and test your air conditioner.
Evaporator coil
The evaporator coil in your AC unit absorbs the heat and any humidity evaporates from these coils. Sometimes this humidity accumulates and freezes on the coils. As mentioned above, frozen coils could be caused by a dirty filter, but that is not always the case. If your AC is running but not cooling the air, turn off the unit and check to see if the coils are frozen. If so, you will need to call an HVAC technician for a repair.
Condenser
Central air conditioners have an outdoor unit called a condenser. The condenser contains coils with closely spaced fins, making it easy for dirt and debris to build up and clog the coils. This will cause your unit to work much harder than usual to cool your home, and—if it’s bad enough—inhibit the unit from creating cold air and possibly shutdown. You can gently clean the condenser yourself with a vacuum or hose. If your air conditioner is still struggling to create cool air, call an HVAC professional.
Leaking Refrigerant
In order for the refrigerant in your air conditioner to absorb heat and cool the air, it transitions from a low-pressure gas to a high-pressure liquid and back to a low-pressure gas. If there is a refrigerant leak or the refrigerant is too low, this causes a drop in pressure allowing the refrigerant to expand more than usual and become too cold, resulting in a freeze-up and your unit will not be able to create cool air. If there is a refrigerant leak, an HVAC expert can help you fix this but may recommend investing in a new air conditioner.
Is your air conditioner running but not cooling? Grand Home Services in Aurora is here to help. We provide air conditioner maintenance, cleaning, repair, and replacement services throughout the Denver Metro Area. Call us or contact us online today!
