AC Repair in St. Louis and the Surrounding Area

• Limit Switch Breaches – The limit switch inside your HVAC system is made to shut the system down if it becomes dangerous in any capacity. The most common reason the limit switch will shut the system off is when it overheats. To get the switch back on so your air conditioner will run again, it requires a system reset by a technician.
• Run Capacitor Issues – The run capacitor keeps the HVAC motor working by sending a series of jolts to it while it’s on. These can burn out quickly without proper maintenance, and when a burnout happens, fans and compressors will stop working.
• Dirty Filters – A clogged or dirty filter will cause the system to struggle as it runs. This can force it to work overtime just to cool your home or office. Eventually, it will overheat or shut down because the airflow will become backed up.
• Refrigerant Leaks – Refrigerant is an essential component of keeping an air conditioner in good shape. When it leaks, the temperature could fluctuate, which makes it harder to keep your home or office at a comfortable temperature.
• Coil Issues – There are two types of coils in your AC system: evaporator coils and condenser coils. Evaporator coils are inside the house, absorbing heat and turning it into cold air. Condenser coils are outside working with the compressor unit. Both can become corroded over time, and that’s when they need to be repaired or replaced.

Of course, this is just a condensed list of the issues that could go wrong and cause an air conditioner repair. Some other indications that a professional repair is needed include squeaking, squealing, pounding or grinding noises coming from the unit.

If the AC is turned on, but is blowing warm or lukewarm air, that’s another indication you should call the professionals. If the thermostat doesn’t read correctly, your energy bills keep rising, your indoor air quality is poor or there’s not much airflow coming from your vents, those are also some signs you should call for a repair.

Maintenance Items You Can Do in Your Own Home or Office

While many repairs require professional HVAC services, you can do some maintenance on your own in your home or office. Keeping up on these simple maintenance items could possibly reduce the amount of calls you have to make to the professionals. The following are just a few items you can take care of at home.

• Keep the Area Clean – The AC unit outside your home should always be kept clean. Gently sweep or vacuum it after a wind storm that fills it full of dust and debris. Clear the area around it so it has plenty of space that allows for good airflow. If you have to do some work around it, cover it to keep it protected.
• Replace the Filter – A clean filter can help you avoid a lot of issues that arise with air conditioning units. You can speak with one of our technicians to find out which filter to purchase for your unit, and then it’s just a quick switch from the old, dirty filter to the new one.
• Manually Control Temperature – There are some ways you can manually control the temperature in your home or office, reducing the amount of work your AC system has to do. For example, keep the blinds closed during some of the hottest times of the day. Run a ceiling fan if you just need it to cool off a little bit. Open windows in the morning to let the cool air in, then shut them before it heats up. Doing these things will put less pressure on your system, but still allow you to live in comfort.

The Benefits of Contacting a Professional Technician Immediately

When your St. Louis, MO, air conditioning unit needs a repair, there are many benefits of having it done right away. Some home or business owners may put it off in the hope that the issue will resolve itself, but that simply won’t happen with a malfunctioning or broken HVAC system. Others may put it off because they feel it will be too expensive, but that poses some unique problems as well. The following are some benefits of contacting the professionals immediately upon noticing there’s an issue.

• Saving Money – You might think the repair will be too expensive, but leaving it for later will only increase the cost. When smaller issues become larger issues, the cost gets higher as well. Repairing your small issues right away could help you save a lot of money in the long run.
• Finding Comfort – Particularly if the weather is extremely hot when your unit breaks down, your home or office could get quite muggy and uncomfortable, which could lead to reduced productivity and sluggish behavior. The sooner you get your repair done, the sooner you’ll feel comfortable again, which will make everyone happier and more willing to get their work done.
• Lasting Longer – You don’t want to go through an AC replacement any sooner than you have to. By keeping up on the small maintenance and repair issues as they arise, you can keep your system running longer, and avoid having to deal with a messy, costly replacement before it’s time.
• Reducing Stress – When the systems of our homes and offices don’t function correctly, it can put a lot of stress on us. If you’re in charge of maintenance and repair, it can be a heavy load. When you contact the professionals for an immediate repair, it could reduce that stress and keep you functioning at a relaxing level.

Some Qualities of a Company You Can Trust

When you hire the professionals for heating and cooling repair in the St. Louis area, you should be able to feel confident in having them in your home. Bart Inman Air has the qualities you should look for when hiring an AC repair company. For example:

• Our technicians are properly certified and trained. We know the job won’t get done without the professionals who know what they’re doing, which is why we require certification and proper training for every individual we employ. They are experts at repairs, installations and a variety of other heating and cooling services.
• We are always available for your call. We realize you can’t plan when you’ll need AC repair in St. Louis. For this reason, we’re available to take your call during regular business hours, on the weekends, during the evening and even on holidays. What’s more is we don’t charge extra during non-business hours because it wouldn’t be fair to charge extra for something you can’t control.
• We are properly Licensed. This gives you peace of mind in knowing we are able to legally operate as your HVAC technicians in St. Louis, MO.
• We serve the entire St. Louis area including Belleville, Clayton, Des Peres, Fenton, Maplewood, South County, Valley Park, Wildwood and more.
• We are accredited with a variety of organizations. This includes Energy Star, Better Business Bureau and Building Performance Institute.
• We treat our customers like family. As a family-owned and operated company, we extend that loyalty to our customers. When we’re in your home, we offer respect. When we’re on a call, we offer respect. When we’re working on resolving an issue, we offer respect. You are part of our family and we’re happy to serve you.

Get Your Repairs Done Today

The St. Louis area can be known to heat up quite a bit during the summer, and if the air conditioner goes out, it could put you in a bad situation. As a home or business owner, it’s your job to keep up on maintenance and repairs so you can keep everyone comfortable when those temperatures rise. After doing your part to keep the system running efficiently, there will come a time when you have to call in the professionals for an AC repair.

Bart Inman Air is your go-to company for all AC repairs in St. Charles County. To learn more about what you can do to keep your system running great, or to schedule a repair, contact us via our online form or give us a call at 314-293-2600 and let’s speak about what you have going on.

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Do You Need Air Conditioner Repair? 10 Warning Signs

As summer arrives in St. Louis and daily temperatures begin to soar, stepping into your air-conditioned home can be a major relief. Refrigerated air not only provides you and your family with a cool, comfortable environment but it may also reduce your home’s humidity and improve air quality. Because your AC unit can be an important element in keeping your family comfortable, preventing malfunction and learning to identify when you need ac repair in St. Louis may be well worth your time.

Poor Air Flow

Your air conditioner’s ventilation system is designed to deliver cool air to designated rooms with each cycle. Over time, the system’s vents may become blocked with debris and dust, which may reduce the efficiency of airflow. You may notice several different symptoms of poor airflow as the hot season progresses, including:

• Uneven cooling in upstairs or exterior rooms 
• Rapid cycling of the system 
• Larger rooms become more difficult to cool 

Poor or reduced airflow may also indicate that your unit’s motor is old or failing. If the problem persists, you might want to have it inspected, as an older motor or thermostat may need replacing.

Grinding or Squeaking 

You are probably familiar with all the noises your air conditioning makes as it starts and ends a cycle. Popping, whooshing and hissing may all accompany the start of a cooling cycle, but when the unit starts to make unfamiliar sounds, this could be a sign of malfunction. Squeaking or grinding sounds may mean that the motor needs servicing or replacing or that a belt is about to wear out. If you can identify the source of the sound, this may help your AC repair technicians repair the unit faster when they arrive.

When you notice new, unusual sounds coming from your air conditioner, dismissing or ignoring them may only make the inevitable repair more expensive. A broken or malfunctioning part may also break down completely or come loose, which can cause further damage to the system. While these unusual sounds may be distressing, having them inspected right away could prevent future issues.

Unit Blows Warm Air 

If your home features a complete heating, ventilation and air conditioning system, switching from heating to cooling often requires little more than sweeping your vents clean before toggling the switch from heating to air conditioning. However, if you notice that your unit is still blowing warm air, your compressor may be malfunctioning.

Before you call a technician, ensure that your thermostat is set properly and that your vents are not blocked. You may also want to check your unit’s outdoor components, as leaves, branches and other debris may be blocking the airflow. You may want to review your unit’s instruction manual and check the troubleshooting section, as this may be helpful for fixing lesser problems.

Foul Odors 

Your home’s air conditioning unit is designed to provide you and your family with cool, pleasant-smelling air, so if you notice unpleasant odors each time it cycles on, this could be a cause for concern. A musty odor could mean that mold has taken hold in the AC’s ductwork or the unit’s coil. Because mold spores can move through the system with ease and take hold in other areas of your home, you may want to call a cleaning and repair company as soon as possible.

Birds, squirrels and other small animals may have made nests in or around your ductwork, and the odors they cause may be traveling through your home’s ductwork. You may want to have your ducts inspected and any pests cleared out before they can seriously damage your air conditioning unit. Some animals, such as mice and rats, can reach ductwork via your home’s roof and attic and cause major damage with their feces and nesting material. Their presence may also seriously affect your home’s air quality.

Leaking 

Condensation around the coils of your AC system is common, as it uses refrigerant with each cycle. However, once leaks start to appear around your vents or inside the unit’s ducts, this could be a sign of water line leakage. The system may have a water line blockage or damaged tubing, which will likely require professional repair. If your unit is leaking refrigerant, this is usually a serious issue and a sign of major malfunction. It is wise to keep the area around the leakage free of children and pets until a technician can examine the system.

Rising Electric Bills 

While you may notice a slight increase in your electricity bill when temperatures rise and you use your air conditioner more often, a bill that spikes each month may be cause for concern. A higher bill usually means that your unit is not functioning as it should or may be experiencing a variety of problems, including:

• Leaking ductwork 
• A failing motor 
• A broken thermostat switch 

Any of these problems can cause your electric bill to rise and in some cases, it may even double if the issue is serious enough. You may want to track your AC usage and compare it to the most recent electricity bill to gauge whether the unit is indeed the cause for the spike.

Rapid Cycling 

Once you set your unit’s thermostat to kick on when the home’s interior reaches a certain temperature, it should cycle normally and at regular intervals. If you notice more cycles within a certain time frame or that the AC is not shutting off as it used to, this may be a sign of malfunction within the thermostat. Rapid cycling may cause your electricity bill to increase due to inefficient cooling, so you may want to have the unit inspected.

Before you call a technician for this issue, check your thermostat to ensure it is set at the proper temperature and that the settings are as they should be for automatic cycling. Refer to your unit’s technical manual if you are unsure about how to reset the system. If a reset does not resolve the rapid cycling issue, you may have to call in a repair company to either repair or replace your thermostat, as the issue will likely not resolve itself.

Unit Will Not Shut Off 

One of the advantages of an HVAC system is that you can flip a switch and walk away without having to constantly adjust the system. Once the thermostat is set correctly, the unit will turn itself on and off as needed. Some problems, however, may interfere with the regular cooling cycles and prevent the system from shutting down once a cycle is complete. You may even hear the unit attempting to shut down before another cycle begins. This is usually a sign of a broken thermostat and you may have to have the device replaced.

If you find that your AC unit will not turn off on its own, you may have to shut it down until help arrives. Allowing the system to run with a broken thermostat may cause further malfunction and affect parts that do not yet need repair. While the temperature in your home may be temporarily uncomfortable until technicians can arrive, turning the unit off may prevent serious future damage.

Interior Humidity 

Your home’s HVAC system not only cools your home but is made to lower humidity levels as well, which gives them somewhat of an advantage over traditional evaporative coolers. If you live in an area that experiences high humidity and notice condensation inside your home or an increased humidity level, this could be a sign that your unit is not functioning efficiently.

High humidity levels could cause secondary problems, such as mold growth and damage to wood floors and attic beams, so it may be a good idea to call in ac repair in St. Louis before the problem gets any worse. In the meantime, you can use standing or ceiling fans to reduce humidity in vulnerable rooms, such as attics and bathrooms. You can also open windows in these areas to control humidity levels, especially on days when they are especially high.

Frequent Operating Issues 

If your air conditioner gives you trouble more often than not, it may be that its lifespan has come to an end. Most units are designed to last up to ten or twelve years, so if you have an older system in your home, it could be time to replace it. While the cost of a new AC unit may give you pause, it might actually be cheaper to replace one that breaks down constantly, especially when the problems are costly to repair. You may want to begin your shopping in late winter or early spring, so you can have your new unit installed and ready to run well before the hot weather hits.

Before you buy a new air conditioner, consider shopping around and read online reviews before you choose an installation service. Look for those that offer free estimates and employ licensed technicians so you can have peace of mind regarding the installation of your new system.

When your home’s air conditioner starts to malfunction, the results can be frustrating. Call Bart Inman Air today for a variety of repair and replacement solutions and give your home and family the comfort they deserve.

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9 Tips for an Energy-Efficient Home

Temperatures are climbing, and your air conditioner is probably going into overdrive trying to keep up. Higher temperatures creating more work for your HVAC unit is likely to cause you to pay more for heating and cooling in St. Louis. This is especially true if you aren’t taking proper steps to ensure your system and the way you use it is energy-efficient. These tips will help you save money and even protect the environment by creating a more energy-efficient home.

1. Change the System’s Air Filter

Changing the filter on your air conditioning unit is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to ensure your home is more energy-efficient. Air filters pick up dust and debris that comes through your system, creating clogs that will reduce overall efficiency over time. Ideally, you should change your HVAC unit’s air filter at least once per month. When examining the filter, you should be able to see light coming through it. If you can’t, it means it’s too dirty. Some filters are higher in quality and may last several months to a year. Depending on your system, you may also have the option of purchasing a reusable filter, further creating efficiency and costs savings. If you are unsure of which type of filter to purchase, check the user manual or ask your heating and cooling company for a recommendation.

2. Clean the Outdoor Unit Often

Keeping the outdoor portion of your HVAC unit free of dirt is just as important as monthly air filter checks. When too much debris builds up on the unit, it prevents the components from working properly. Once a month, inspect your outdoor unit for signs of clogging. Pay special attention to the coils, removing leaves, twigs, and other dirt and debris that become lodged in them. If it appears that your HVAC unit needs a deep cleaning, you may need to call in a professional. A heating and cooling service can deep clean the unit and provide guidance to help you keep it working at optimum efficiency in the future.

3. Perform Routine Ductwork Inspections

Your HVAC system used ductwork to bring the outside unit’s work into the indoors. Like the rest of the system, ductwork can become clogged. In addition, the seams of the ducts can become unsealed, leading to a loss of cool or warm air. In fact, leaking air ducts can cause your home to lose as much as 25% of its energy. For this reason, annual inspection is important. Because these areas are more intricate, it is important to hire a professional HVAC services company. A technician will check for clogs and other damage, re-seal any areas that need it, and ensure the system is working efficiently overall.

4. Invest in a Programmable Thermostat

According to the United States Department of Energy, changing the temperature of your home when you aren’t present in it can save you as much as 15% on your energy bills in a year. During the summer months, you don’t need to keep your home at 70 degrees when you’re at work or enjoying the weekend, and winter months don’t require you to keep the house as warm when you aren’t home. However, adding “lower or raise the thermostat” to your morning to-do list is simply too much to remember for many busy people. A programmable thermostat is the solution. These systems are typically quite affordable and allow you to set predetermined temperatures based on your schedule. Some models even allow you to set separate temperatures for different rooms in the house. This means you can keep the living room warmer while maintaining a cool bedroom that is perfect for snuggling under the comforters.

5. Lower the Temperature on Your Water Heater

You probably don’t think about your water heater much as long as it’s working correctly, but you should be. Most water heaters are set to 140 degrees by default, which can cause you to lose heat and pay about 15% more on heating expenses each year. Dropping your water heater’s temperature to 120 degrees has several benefits without causing any discernible difference to your showers. Most notably, reducing the temperature makes your home more energy-efficient and helps you to save money. Additionally, a lower temperature decreases the accumulation of hard water minerals, leading to a longer life with less fuel consumption. Finally, water higher than 120 degrees is more likely to cause accidental scalding. A lower temperature ensures your entire family stays safe.

6. Take Advantage of Natural Energy Sources

Don’t discount the natural energy created by the environment you live in. Specifically, consider how the sun heats your home. During colder months, the warm sun can help to heat your home during the day, leading to a slight decrease in your energy costs. Open the curtains to let the sun in during the day and keep your HVAC unit from working too hard. Depending on how much natural light your home gets, the sun’s warmth may even help to keep your space warmer during the evenings. Of course, during summer months, the sun may cause your air conditioner to work harder. While you likely don’t want to live the entire season with your blinds closed, installing weather stripping and windows that block UV rays will help to increase your home’s energy efficiency.

7. Use Fans Throughout Your Home

If you don’t already use fans in your home, doing so can increase its energy efficiency. Installing ceiling fans and using them when you’re in the room can help to keep everyone more comfortable. Set your ceiling fans to rotate counterclockwise, which creates a bit of a windchill effect that typically makes you feel cooler. Of course, if you keep the fans running when you aren’t in the room, you’ll be contributing to energy loss, so remember to turn them off when not in use. If you can’t install ceiling fans or don’t want to take on a big project, oscillating standing fans can also be helpful.

8. Update the Insulation in Your Home

The insulation in the rest of your home is just as important as the insulation used in your ductwork. When your home’s windows or crawlspaces aren’t properly insulated, your HVAC unit has to work harder to keep your home at the optimal temperature. It is important to note that not all home insulation is created equally; some types are more energy-efficient than others. Cellulose and fiberglass insulation are typically the most popular, simply because they have been available for years. They are affordable choices, but don’t often offer much protection. Many building experts recommend making the switch to spray foam insulation instead. Spray foam is the most energy-efficient option because it creates an airtight barrier anywhere that you spray it. It can expand to as much as 100 times its original size, filling in even the smallest nooks and crannies in your home. Even better, because its main ingredients are organic chemical compounds, spray foam is also safe for the environment.

9. Install a New HVAC System

Maybe you’ve done all of the above but are still noticing energy bills are too high or the house just doesn’t feel as cool or warm as it should. If this is the case, it could mean that it’s time to install a newer, more energy-efficient HVAC system. The key to a good purchase is understanding what it is your home needs. First, consider the the SEER number and HSPF rating of a unit. Short for Seasonal Energy Efficient Ratio, the SEER number should be at least 14.5 for an efficient unit. The Heating Season Performance Factor lets you know how how efficient heat pumps are. The higher the number, the better the efficiency, and it should be at least 8.2.

Next, you’ll need to decide which size unit best works for your home. One that is too small will cause higher energy bills because it will work too hard to heat and cool your home. On the other hand, buying a unit that is too big will cause price increases because you’ll be using more power than you need. A professional can help you determine how large or small your unit should be.

Someone experienced in HVAC services can also help you determine which type of system is best for you. From natural gas-powered to electric units, combination systems to radiant heat systems, you’ll have a variety of options. A licensed contractor understands the advantages and disadvantage of each option and ca help you find the right one for your needs.

Whether you’re purchasing a new system or simply want your current one to work more efficiently, one thing is certain: finding a licensed and insured HVAC company is important. Bart Inman Air provides a variety of heating and cooling services, including furnace repairs and AC repair, in St. Louis, MO, and all of St. Charles County. We are experienced, professional, and strive to go above and beyond for our clients. Get in touch with us today to learn how we can help you stay cool this summer and warm this winter.

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The Best AC Repair in St. Louis

Common HVAC Issues

Any number of things can go wrong with your HVAC system, and Bart Inman is always ready to help get your home back in order. In fact, this company offers a wide variety of services, including:

• Boiler and furnace repairs — from the smallest leaks to complete breakdowns, Bart Inman is the one to call to get your system back up to code.
• Thermostat installation and repair — is your home in need of a new thermostat? Does your old unit need a tune up? Having your system maintenance is as easy as making a quick phone call.
• Air conditioner cleaning and maintenance — sometimes, improving your system just takes a deep cleaning. Let Bart Inman take care of the hard work for you!
• Carbon monoxide detection — it’s important to check your HVAC system and furnace for carbon monoxide leaks. If you ever feel your home is at risk for a leak, call Bart Inman Air right away.
• Emergency repairs — did your system break down during the hottest or coldest part of the season? Never fear; help is on the way when you need it most!

How Bart Inman Can Help

The specialists at Bart Inman Air have years of training under their belt, so you know the job will be done right every time. As the best ac repair St Louis has to offer, Bart Inman can perform repairs services in almost any conditions, replace your old units with a brand new model, tune up your current system and help you maintain your HVAC units to prepare for the upcoming seasons.

Once you’ve had your HVAC system upgraded or serviced, you’ll notice a substantial increase in your indoor air quality — your air conditioner will cool your home down significantly faster, and your heater will be able to stave off the cold like never before. Regular maintenance from Bart Inman’s licensed technicians will also keep your hot water heater running at peak efficiency, so you’re guaranteed to have access to hot water whenever you need it. If your heat pumps, AC unit, furnace, boiler or other HVAC units need a little TLC, there’s no better company for the job in all of St. Charles County!

Why Bart Inman

As a family-owned and operated company, the licensed and trained technicians at Bart Inman will treat your system with the care it needs. The benefits available to you are virtually limitless; aside from the most affordable prices in the area, this company is glad to offer heating and cooling service at no extra charge for evenings, weekends and even holidays. Service is available for all makes, models and brands of HVAC unit, and no repair job is too much to take on. Full replacements are offered, but Bart Inman Air won’t push for a replacement if a less expensive repair will do the trick. What’s more, discounts for police, firefighters, military service members and senior citizens are gladly offered.

When it comes to ac repair St. Louis is home to countless HVAC companies; however, Bart Inman Air stands out as the number one repair service in the entire area. From basic repairs to complex replacements and maintenance, trust your home to experts who truly strive for excellence and professionalism. If your HVAC system needs a little work, let Bart Inman Air get it done today!

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What You Should Know About AC Repair in St. Louis

Your AC system in St. Louis MO is one of those things you probably don’t think about too often. Fortunately, most AC systems are built to last for many years before needing replacement. However, it is important to keep your system maintained if you want to extend its lifespan as long as possible. That includes changing the filter regularly, having a professional check things out at least once a year, and scheduling AC repair in St Louis whenever it is needed. Here at Bart Inman Air Conditioning & Heat, we provide reliable furnace repair and air conditioning repair year-round. Here’s what you should know about your heating and cooling system and when it’s time to schedule HVAC services in St. Louis.

The Importance of Air Quality

When you think about your HVAC system, does air quality come to mind? If it doesn’t, it should. Indoor air quality is often worse than outdoor air quality. If this comes as a surprise, consider the fact that outdoor air is cleaned regularly through natural means every time a storm blows through. To ensure the quality of your indoor air, you need to clean and change the filter in your HVAC system regularly. We recommend changing your filter at least once every 90 days. If you don’t like to do it yourself, call us and we’ll take care of it for you. It’s a simple process that only takes a few minutes.

Here are a few common signs that your HVAC filter needs changing:

•         You start to develop allergy symptoms unexpectedly (such as itchy eyes, sneezing, stuffy or runny nose, etc.)
•         There’s visible dust near your air vents
•         Your energy bill has gone up
•         Your home seems to get dusty quicker than it used to
•         Your HVAC system is running less efficiently

These are all common indications that you need to replace your filter in St. Louis MO. However, they can also be indications of other problems that require repair and maintenance. Try replacing your filter first, and if the problems persist, give us a call and we’ll come diagnose the problem. We’re professional air handlers who know how to make sure your AC units, heat pumps, and entire HVAC systems are working properly.

Indications You Need AC Repair

If you think you might need HVAC services in the greater St. Louis area but you aren’t sure, here are some signs to watch for. Any of these signs indicate that you need AC repair right away.

•         Your unit is unusually noisy
•         You can see a leak coming from your AC unit
•         Your energy bills skyrocket
•         Your home cools unevenly
•         Your AC coil is frozen
•         Your home feels strangely humid

Any of these problems can indicate that you need emergency service for your unit. Fortunately, we can come out with 24 hours and repair your air conditioning unit. We can also provide you with other services in St. Louis, including furnace maintenance, water heater repair and any other heating and cooling services you may need. You will feel much better going into the warmer and cooler months knowing you’ve had your air conditioner and furnace repaired.

Contact Us

We enjoy serving St. Louis residents with exceptional HVAC repairs. Contact us today to schedule your service.

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Exploring Your Options for Air Conditioner Filters

Depending on where you live, you may be used to poor air quality whenever you step outside. Now imagine having worse air quality inside your home, where you may spend a majority of your time. When they aren’t providing professional and trusted AC repair in St Louis, the expert HVAC technicians of Bart Inman Air educate our customers on bringing out the best in their HVAC systems. Here’s a rundown of various HVAC filters that keep your home’s air free of dirt, dust, pollen, pet dander and various other irritants and pollutants.

Pleated Air Filters

If you or someone in your home has allergies or asthma, consider installing pleated air filters. Such filters effectively get rid of small particulates such as mold spores. You won’t have to worry as much about pollutants recirculating through your home’s air thanks to the polyester or cotton folds within these filters. 

Fiberglass Air Filters

Less expensive than pleated filters, you may throw away fiberglass filters after each use. This selection doesn’t cause as much wear on your HVAC unit while scrubbing your air clean, but they are not the most efficient filters. Those with respiratory issues may want to opt for something stronger to ensure their comfort and health.

UV Air Filters

Depending on your HVAC system, it may have a built-in UV filter and air scrubber. The filters eliminate microorganisms such as bacteria and viruses with the power of UV rays. That said, they aren’t the best for getting rid of typical pollutants, allergens and irritants, so you may want to pair it with another filter designed for such a task. 

HEPA Air Filters

High-efficiency particulate air filters cost more than pleated or fiberglass filters, but they can filter out as much as 99.97% of dander, dust, viruses, bacteria, dust, pollen and more. One thing to bear in mind with air filters is they all have a MERV rating, which rates a filter’s efficiency. HEPA filters have one of the highest ratings, but the higher the rating, the more difficult it is for your AC unit to pull in air. That’s why we recommend talking things over with an HVAC technician about which HEPA filter fits your unit most favorably without compromising on performance.

Reusable Air Filters

If you want to be more sustainable while enjoying a higher indoor air quality, consider investing in reusable air filters. Rather than dispose of the filter when it becomes caked with dirt and debris, you can instead rinse off a reusable filter. They cost more than disposable filters, though. To take optimum care of the air scrubber, read the manual. At the least, let the filter fully dry after cleaning it, because putting it back in while damp may lead to mold and mildew issues, which are the very air pollutants you want your filter to get rid of.

Do you feel it’s time to upgrade or change your HVAC filter? For more recommendations and information, contact a Bart Inman Air representative. Fill out and submit a Contact Us form, or call us at 314-293-2600.

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Common Problems Plaguing ACs in the Summer

No matter your summer plans, you probably didn’t schedule trouble with your air conditioner. Unlike AC repair St Louis MO, you can’t pencil in HVAC breakdowns and complications. Bart Inman Air is here to help you avoid as many cooling issues this summer as possible, which is why we want to familiarize you with common AC problems for the warmer months of the year.

 

A Unit That Won’t Turn On

Imagine your dismay during one of the hottest days of the year to discover your air conditioner refuses to turn on. You may have a blown fuse, tripped breaker or old capacitors keeping the appliance from functioning. 

 

Low Refrigerant Levels

Upon checking your air conditioner to ensure it’s ready to keep you cool this summer, you may find you have low refrigerant levels. While your unit may need a recharge to address a small leak, you shouldn’t have to add more refrigerant. If you need multiple recharges, we recommend having a heating and cooling technician get to the bottom of the issue before it drains your finances the way it drains your refrigerant.
 

Duct Leaks

As warm and cool air blow through your ducts, they expand and contract. If air leaks from your ducts or you think you have a duct leak, you likely have stressed joints. Unaddressed, compromised ducts raise your utility bills.
 

Dirty Air Filters 
If your air conditioner runs almost constantly during the summer, the air filters become clogged with dirt, debris, particulates and irritants faster. Other than constant operation, pets and poor indoor air quality also contribute to dirtying your filters. You must replace or clean filters regularly. Otherwise, your AC works harder to force air through vents, which strains the unit and your power bills. Besides changing or cleaning your filters, consider switching to more efficient filters for optimum operation and comfort.
 

Dirty Coils 
Your air conditioner may process several thousand pounds of air every day, which means it must process all the dirt, pollen and dust in that air. Over time, this coats your unit’s coils in filth, which prevents your appliance from operating at its best. If your unit overheats or breaks down, it may be because the coil’s too dirty. Our HVAC repair technicians can clean your coils during routine maintenance, which is another reason we recommend creating a regular maintenance schedule.
 

Water Drips 
Other than low refrigerant, check your exterior unit for dripping water. You may have a stopped-up drain line from the evaporator coils if you discover a water puddle around your appliance. Like most AC issues, we suggest addressing dripping water sooner rather than later, as you do not want the complication to harm your system’s electronics.
 

Poor or Low Airflow 
When you hold your hand to a vent, you may have poor or non-existent airflow. If you have a new or clean filter, the issue could be with your fan, which may have a malfunctioning motor, worn belt or buildup of dirt.
 
Don’t wait to see if you experience the above AC problems this summer. Contact Bart Inman Air to schedule maintenance or an inspection. Call 314-293-2600 or submit an online form.

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Tips for Keeping Your Home Cool Without an Air Conditioner

While your home’s air conditioner may work fine now, there may come a time during the summer when the appliance quits on you. Of course, you may call for professional AC repair St Louis MO, but it may take several hours or even days before a technician comes to your home or finishes repairing your unit. In the meantime, you need to stay cool without a working unit. Bart Inman Air has the tips and solutions you need to beat the heat.

Close the Blinds

When you want to save on electricity, you may open your blinds to let the sunlight in. If you want to stay cool without an air conditioner, keep all the blinds in your home closed so unwanted heat doesn’t ooze in through the window. If you need at least a little sunlight, do not open the blinds or curtains on west- or south-facing windows, as those get the most sunlight and residual heat.

Drink Water

While you should drink water no matter which appliances work in your home, it’s especially vital to stay hydrated when you don’t have cool air blowing through your air duct. To help cool you off, your body needs adequate moisture. Because your body heats the water, the temperature of the vital liquid doesn’t matter.

Change Your Ceiling Fan Rotation

Do you keep your ceiling fans churning in the same direction all year? In the summer, your fans should spin counter-clockwise when you look up at them. That way, they direct air down rather than up. Even if you don’t need air conditioning repair, keeping your fans rolling in the right direction pushes cool air down where you and your family can feel it.

Buy Blackout Curtains

Blackout curtains are great for keeping the sun out of your bedroom while you sleep and keeping your home cool. By blocking out sunlight, blackout curtains act as natural insulation from residual heat. To maximize heat gain reduction, opt for curtains with a neutral color and white plastic backings.

Place Cold Washrags on Your Wrists and Neck

While sipping water to keep cool, help your body further by draping cool washrags over your neck and wrists. These parts of the body have pulse points with vessels close to the skin. Keeping these spots cool helps you chill out quickly and easily.

Open and Close Doors Strategically

While going through your home and shutting curtains, close the doors on rooms you and your family use little. That way, you do not spend money cooling unused rooms while you wait for HVAC repair. On the flip side, open all the doors in your house during cooler evening and night temperatures.

Install Quality Insulation for Your Attic and Walls

Do you know what kind of insulation you have in your home’s attic and walls? If not, now’s the time to let a technician in the St Louis area look at your existing insulation to ensure it helps keep you and your family cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Not only does insulation help keep heat out and cool air in, but it also reduces your energy bills.

If your air conditioner gives out on you during the hottest months of the year, Bart Inman Air is here to get you up and running ASAP. For maintenance, an inspection or questions about getting a new HVAC unit, call us at 314-293-2600 or submit a Contact Us form.