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Renting in Queensland? Here’s some AC tips for you

Anyone who has spent a summer in Queensland knows how important it is to access a quality air conditioner. Many landlords understand this and include AC units on their properties.  If you’re renting in Queensland and your landlord has included an air conditioner as part of your lease, here are some tips you should know to make the most out of your experience.

Tip #1. Understand Who Is Responsible for What

Renters often assume that repairs and associated costs are the landlord’s responsibility. This tends to be true unless outlined differently in the lease agreement, so ensure you have a thorough understanding of it before you sign. Also, keep a copy handy for your records. 

Let’s assume that your renter’s agreement states that your landlord is responsible for aircon servicing and repair. This responsibility ends if you damage the AC unit. To frame it differently, the landlord is only responsible for repairing your AC if the damage it suffered is the result of regular use or an accident. A good practice is to treat the air conditioner as though you owned it, even though you don’t. 

When renting in Queensland, requesting repairs from your landlord should be done in writing and as soon as you realize there is a problem. Following these steps can avoid potential conflicts in the future. At this point, the landlord must address the issue in a timely fashion or risk incurring penalties. 

Tip #2. The Renter Must Take Care of the AC

Even though your landlord may be responsible for fixing a damaged air conditioner unit, the tenant is responsible for maintaining it as part of the property they’re renting. This only applies to a residential unit in the property you are renting (you wouldn’t be responsible for a building’s HVAC system, for example). Doing your part to keep the unit operational can prevent your landlord from making repairs in the future.

With air conditioning cleaning, your landlord may have specific methods they want you to follow. If they do, stick with them. If not, following the steps outlined in the owner’s manual (with most models, you can find a copy online). 

There are two critical focuses to cleaning your air conditioner: wiping the inside and washing the air filter. With the former, it’s a simple matter of removing part of the exterior (usually by removing screws in the front) so that you can access the interior. From there, it’s just a matter of using a cleaning agent approved for AC units and wiping down the insides. Doing so combats mould and algae, which can develop in moist areas.

Cleaning the air filter is just as simple. Slowly remove the filter and rinse it with running water. Wash with soap or detergent and let it air dry before returning it to the AC unit.

If you perform these tasks every three months, you’ll keep your air quality high and your air conditioner running well. It’s not just your obligation as a tenant. It’s necessary to prevent dust and mould from building up in the unit and affecting your health. 

Tip #3. When Cleaning Becomes Your Landlord’s Responsibility

As a renter, your obligations to maintain the property have limits. Complex mechanical issues, such as a blocked drainage system, fall under your landlord’s responsibilities. In that case, they will most likely need to hire a professional air conditioning service like Siv Air to diagnose and fix the problem. Hiring an air conditioner cleaning service will cost less than repairing the unit (unless it’s completely broken).

Tip #4. Who Pays the AC Bill when renting in Queensland?

As necessary as an air conditioner may be to living comfortably in Queensland, the tenant is responsible for their air conditioning cost per month. Note that this isn’t the case if your landlord agrees to pay your electric bill as part of the lease.

If utilities are your responsibility, you can keep your AC cost low by regulating how you use it. Running it 24/7 will naturally lead to an increase in your average electric bill. The same could happen if your unit has automatic settings that detect changes in the temperature and activates accordingly. An easy way to keep costs and energy consumption low is to only use your aircon system when you’re home and to close the doors and windows to better trap cold air in the room your AC is in.

Tip #5. Signs To Look Out For

When renting in Queensland you should keep an eye on the AC units. Most problems with air conditioners develop gradually over time with regular use. While it may seem like they are hard to detect, you can catch them before they become serious issues if you remain vigilant. Be on the lookout for the following:

• Bad odor. If your AC begins emitting a bad smell, that could be a sign that water has built up, allowing algae and mould to grow. In most cases, you can deal with this with regular cleaning, but if the smell continues, it could mean that mould or algae have developed somewhere in the drainage system. At this point, you would need professional assistance. 
• Water dripping out the front. It’s normal for condensation to appear on the side of the AC that’s facing outdoors. However, if the water is spilling out the front of the unit, that usually means there’s a failure in the drainage system. Again, it’s best to let a professional address problems like this.
• The AC doesn’t reach the appropriate temperature. If you find that your AC produces too cold or too warm air regardless of your settings, the problem may lie in the cooling unit. Technicians should be able to replace any damaged parts.

Tip #6. Renting in Queensland – Put Your Trust in Siv Air

Since 2015, Siv Air has been servicing customers in the Queensland area with domestic and commercial AC installation and repair. Whether you’re a tenant renting in Queensland or a landlord, reach out to our incredible team to learn more about how Siv Air can help you keep your home cool and comfortable this summer.

Factors to Keep in Mind When Installing a New Air Conditioner

During the hot season, having air conditioning in your home helps combat those hot 40 degree days, providing a place for you to cool down and relax. Keeping your home cool enables you to sleep better and creates a more enjoyable space overall. Once you’ve decided to install a new air conditioner, you need to do a bit of research before settling on the unit you’ll need to cool your home. 

Here are nine things to consider before you take the plunge into air conditioner installation.

Concern #1: Cost of purchasing and installing a new air conditioner

The most crucial factor for most homeowners is the cost of any improvements to their homes. You may want air conditioning, but you don’t want to spend a small fortune to get a unit installed only to find out it’s not the right size. 

Research multiple air conditioning units, evaluating the size, cost, energy use, and compare them to the budget you’ve set for installation.

Concern #2: Number and Size of Rooms To Cool

Depending on your home’s size or the rooms you want to cool, you can save quite a bit of money and benefit from energy savings by choosing only as much aircon as you need. You may wish only to cool frequently used rooms, or you can cool the entire house. 

No matter which way you choose, you’ll need to measure each room or the entire house to determine the air conditioning unit’s size needed to cool the area. If the unit is too small, it will work overtime to keep the room cool, running continuously. It won’t fully cycle if it’s too big, meaning it will frequently turn on and off. In both cases, this drives up the cost of your electricity tariffs. 

Concern #3: Insulation

Rooms without adequate insulation take longer to cool, using more energy. Cooling a room or house with less insulation requires a larger unit to perform correctly. 

Many factors determine the amount of insulation your home has. These are:

• Construction materials – Double brick builds or more modern builds use materials that affect your heating and cooling efficiency.
• Installation of insulation materials – Is your insulation blown-in fiberglass or sheets?
• Window coverings and gaps – Gaps in door and window seals create areas where cooled air can leak out, and hot air can come in.

The better insulated your home is, the easier it is to cool. 

Concern #4: Ceiling Height

In addition to the square footage of the room, the volume is just as important. When you have high ceilings like a cathedral or non-standard ceiling height, it takes more energy to cool the area down. If your unit is too small, it will have to work harder to compensate for this and work harder.

Concern #5: Outside Surroundings

Split system air conditioning units have one indoor and one outdoor unit that works together to cool your home. If you are considering a split system unit, make sure the area around your home has space to install the outside unit. If you’re using multiple units, you’ll need to make sure there’s room for two or more. The indoor unit is installed on a wall, ensuring you have a large enough space for this installation.

Concern #6: Air Quality

Most air conditioning units have a predefined air quality that is required. The manufacturer provides specifications of their unit. When an air conditioner isn’t working correctly, it emits a smell that makes residents uncomfortable. When it is working properly, it can increase your home’s air quality, making it more comfortable and cutting down on allergies.

Concern #7: Energy Consumption

We’ve talked about how room size, insulation, and other factors affect your air conditioning unit’s energy use, but the unit itself has its own energy consumption standards. Research different manufacturers and find the most energy-efficient unit for your space.  

To locate this information, look for the EER rating of the unit. This indicates the efficiency rating. As a general rule, a rating should be between 8 to 11.5. The higher the rating, the more efficient the system.

Concern #8: Regular Maintenance

Air conditioning units require regular maintenance. Add this into your budget when considering installing air conditioning. Most installers provide additional services for maintenance, emergency repairs, and annual inspections. 

Adding this into your budget keeps your unit running efficiently and helps avoid costly repairs in the future. 

Concern #9: Finding the Right Installer for your New Air Conditioner

Not all air conditioning installers are created equal—research their reviews, website, units they sell and service, and experience and education.

Siv Air specialises in domestic and commercial service, installation, and repairs. We pride ourselves on offering a high level of customer service that includes in-depth product knowledge, prompt communication, cost-effectiveness, on-time delivery, and friendly dealings.Since 2015, our qualified refrigeration technicians have been helping people just like you with their air conditioning and refrigeration needs. We are insured and fully licensed to provide great value and exceptional service. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Commercial Air Conditioning Systems – Everything you need to know

Every commercial building has its own unique needs. If you’re building a new facility or updating your cooling system, it’s important to learn about your options and make the best choice for your space, your customers, and your staff.

We’re going to give you an overview of some of the most common types of commercial air conditioning systems. This will help you narrow down your choices so you can find a system that will give you consistent and cost-effective cooling for many years to come.

The 4 Types of Commercial Air Conditioning Systems

There are four main types of commercial air conditioning systems available that you should consider for your business. Each type of system works best in certain situations. It’s important to think about your needs and space to make the best decision for your space.

1. Ductless Split System Air Conditioners

Ductless systems use the same type of technology found in other HVAC systems, but there is one essential difference. Other split systems utilize ducts to circulate treated air through your building. In contrast, a duct-free system has to be installed in the room that it needs to cool.

This system would need to be installed in a room with an outside-facing wall. The ductless system’s blower is housed in the indoor unit — allowing it to blow cool treated air into the room. 

One of the biggest drawbacks of this type of system is that it’s large, noisy, and easily visible. This can make it less than ideal for businesses that are customer-facing. Overall duct-free split systems are usually best for workshops or open areas where much of the work is performed in a single room away from customers.

2. Duct-Free Mini Split System Commercial Air Conditioners

Duct-free mini split systems are similar to their full-size counterparts that we just discussed — they are simply smaller and make less noise.

These smaller units can be a great compromise for smaller businesses that want to enjoy the convenience of a ductless split system without compromising the aesthetics of their spaces. Basically Duct-Free Mini Split System AC units are ideal for spot cooling areas where ductwork is not achievable.

However, if you have large rooms or multiple buildings, you would have to install multiple systems in order to cool your spaces efficiently. Also extra units can make this style of air conditioner less cost-effective.

Duct-free mini split systems are typically ideal for smaller spaces like kiosks, sheds, or stalls where they can have access to outside walls and smaller areas to cool.

3. Standard Ducted Split System Commerical Air Conditioner Systems

Ducted split systems are designed in three parts. There is an outdoor unit, an indoor unit, and a series of ducts that move the cooled air throughout your building.

In addition to routine maintenance, with ducted systems, you will also need to hire a professional to perform annual cleaning on your ducts. This regular cleaning will prevent unwanted buildup from accumulating in your ducts — which could compromise air quality and prevent adequate airflow.

Futhermore these types of split systems are some of the energy-efficient options for larger spaces. When they are properly installed and maintained, they can provide even cooling across every room with a vent.

4. Packed System Air Conditioners

Package system air conditioners use all of the same primary components of traditional air conditioners but they are positioned differently. 

Meanwhile in traditional split systems, the compressor and condenser coils are housed in an outdoor unit. Then the evaporator is placed inside, allowing it to absorb heat from your air indoors.

By contrast, in a packaged system, all of the components are housed in a single box located against an outside wall of your building. This packaged approach makes this style of system less of an eyesore inside your business.

However, these systems can be more obtrusive outside your building. As a result, these types of systems are generally located on the roof or against a wall that is not immediately visible to customers.

Get Help Making the Right Choice for You

Businesses cater to a wide range of clientele.

• Do you have an upscale business where you have to carefully consider your aesthetic appeal for sophisticated clients?
• Have you got a workshop space where you have a large room to cool and keep comfortable for your employees?
• Do you have multiple rooms or several buildings that you need to maintain cool temperatures on?

The answer to those questions can help lead you to the right choice.

But, you don’t have to make that decision alone. Once you are ready to make a decision, Siv Air can help you evaluate your businesses needs. Siv Air specialises in brands you can trust, including Fujitsu.

Book an appointment with us at Siv Air to talk with our experienced AC technicians. We’ll explore your options with you and help you decide on the right combination of performance and efficiency for your needs.

11 Strange Facts You Probably Didn’t Know About Air Conditioning

Air Conditioning and Heating are keystone technologies in the modern age. Our comfortable offices, workspaces, and homes demonstrate how important air control is in day-to-day living.

Air conditioning has a long and fascinating history and plays an important role in everyone’s lives. Here are a few of the coolest facts you might not know about air conditioning.

1. Air Conditioning Dates Back to 180 AD

During the Han Dynasty, an inventor named Ting Huan constructed an elaborate hand-cranked air cooling machine. It featured seven large fan wheels, each over 3 meters wide. While the construction could cool down an entire hall, the person stuck cranking it probably got pretty warm.

2. We Used to Just Use Ice

Of course, even before Ting Huan’s giant fan, humans knew one reliable way to cool down: ice! For thousands of years, humans harvested large ice blocks from nature and used them to cool down living spaces, hospitals, and food storage rooms. In the early days of electric air conditioning, manufacturers would rate their products in “ice power” to help customers compare.

In the 1840s, Dr. John Gorrie recognized the therapeutic and medical value of using ice to control medicine and body temperatures. He devised a method of creating ice using water, steam, and horsepower, which laid the foundation for modern air conditioning.

3. Electric Cooling is Less than 150 Years Old

In 1882, Schuyler Wheeler invented the electric fan. Finally, no more need to convince someone to turn a crank! Wheeler was a prolific inventor, going on to develop the electric elevator and electric fire engine.

Not long after, in 1902, the first modern air conditioner was invented by William Carrier. While watching the fog billow through a Pittsburgh train platform, he was inspired to build a machine to control the air temperature and humidity at the printing press where he worked. Dryer, cooler air prevented ink from running and paper from swelling.

4. Early Air-Conditioning Was a Status Symbol

It didn’t take long for electric air-conditioning to take off. In 1903, the New York Stock Exchange became a prominent early adopter, using air-conditioning to cool the crowded trading floor.

The first residential home to have AC installed was the Charles Gates mansion in 1913. However, when Gates passed, his nearly 40,000 sq ft mansion was too expensive to find a buyer and was demolished.

U.S. President Hoover had AC installed in the White House in 1930. In 1932, the first window-mounted AC units hit the market, though they were prohibitively expensive at the time. By 1939, the Packard motor company began installing AC in their vehicles.

5. Air-Conditioning Expanded Our Frontiers

After WWII, electric air-conditioning became more affordable and accessible worldwide, spreading to Australia, Europe, and the Middle East. As home air-conditioning became an option, people could move into harsher, hotter environments like Texas, Florida, and Western Australia.

Air-conditioning and refrigeration play critical roles in medicine too. Without cooled storage and work-environments, we might not have effective treatments for diseases like polio and malaria.

6. Cold Air Saves Lives

Over the last 50 years, the recorded rate of heatstroke deaths in the summer dropped more than 80 percent. Researchers attribute this to the prevalence of accessible, air-conditioned spaces and cold water.

Allergy sufferers benefit significantly from AC systems, too, as most air-conditioners filter out pollen and other allergens. We all appreciate breathing easy at home and work.

7. The Largest AC is at Mecca

Air-conditioning has come a long way. The most extensive AC system in the world serves the Holy Mosque in Makka, Saudi Arabia. With air temperatures reaching above 38 degrees and a million or more visitors monthly, this massive installation has a cooling capacity of 135,000 tonnes. In other words, it would take 1.35 million kg of ice to produce a similar amount of cooling.

8. Air-conditioning Lead to Summer Blockbusters

Movie theaters found early popularity as a place to escape the summer heat thanks to large AC systems keeping theaters cool. Savvy Hollywood film producers took advantage of the packed seats to release their biggest films, leading to the “summer blockbuster” tradition.

9. Cold Air Takes Power

There’s not much better than getting out of the summer heat and into a refreshing, air-conditioned building. Believe it or not, we spend a lot less energy keeping buildings cool than we do on warming them up. An average house requires less than 10 million BTUs for cooling annually, while the same place uses about 40 million BTUs for heating.

In the United States, approximately 95% of new homes come with AC installed. Together, the country uses as much energy to power its heating and cooling in a year as it takes to power the entire continent of Africa. 

10. Fridges Came First

Many people are surprised to learn that refrigerators came before air-conditioning. In fact, by the time William Carrier was watching the fog roll in, refrigerators were commonplace in most homes.

However, as air-conditioning technology developed, it combined with refrigeration tech to transform our grocery markets. The bountiful displays of fresh fruit and produce we’re accustomed to today wouldn’t be maintainable without air-conditioning.

11. The Strangest AC Might Be Yours

With all the different ways we make use of AC today, one thing is sure. Each air-conditioning system is unique, tailored to the specific needs of the building it serves. When your AC system needs maintenance, repairs, or upgrades, you don’t want to be discovering strange new facts about it. 

Trust the experts at Siv Air. Our team has decades of combined experience working with AC systems of all types and sizes, and we’ve seen and fixed plenty of strange ones along the way. Whatever your air-conditioning needs are, we’re ready to help.

Air Conditioning Problems – Cairns, Queensland

The blistering heat of summer can be a sweltering nightmare for anyone, especially if you live in Cairns, or the surrounding Queensland area. A home with a sound AC system can make a world of difference. But what about when you have Air Conditioning Problems and it doesn’t cool well? Cooling problems are often the result of poor maintenance or damage to an older unit. Let’s take a look at some of the causes of poor cooling and address some of the concerns you may have during the summer months.

Check the State of Repair

The first thing needed to assess any required maintenance of any appliance is to look at the machine itself, starting with the exterior. 

Is There Any Damage? 

Exterior damage is easily noticeable and a key sign of potential internal issues. External damage with ACs normally results from an impact.

For ductless/window units, check the mounting brackets that hold the unit up (and the window itself, if applicable). If it has fallen before, it will happen again if the mounts themselves are damaged. Depending on the amount of exterior damage, significant collateral interior damage may have occurred, and the unit may need replacing.

If you find exterior damage on your air conditioner unit, make sure it isn’t leaking any fluids or gasses.

Check around the surrounding area for debris from trees or the building above; a falling tree branch or piece of masonry can both damage your unit and the mounts it sits on.

For larger central air units, as above, check around for fallen debris and create a plan to deal with the issue. Sometimes this can be as simple as installing a metal-framed grate above the unit to protect it while enabling unrestricted airflow. If falling debris is a more serious concern, you may have to move the unit entirely.

Are There Any Fluids Leaking From It?

If your unit is leaking fluid that does not appear to be evaporating, it is most likely water. This means that there is potentially a problem with the drain line, which will require a call to a repair technician.

Replace the Filters

Filters are a vital part of any AC system. They filter and help purify the air they cycle by removing dust, dirt, and microbes. Filters need to be regularly cleaned or replaced, especially in the summer. A clogged filter will lead to reduced efficiency and higher running costs.

Get a Licenced Professional to Assess the Wiring

As with all appliances, check the wiring for signs of fraying or scorching. Not only can this lead to permanent fire damage, but it may also be causing the machine to turn on or off at unintended times, wreaking havoc on the efficiency level.

Cleaning the Unit

Another essential step that most don’t think of right away is thoroughly cleaning the unit’s exterior. Focus on cleaning the coils on the unit to ensure that heat exchange is at maximum efficiency. A garden hose can clean the unit’s coils as long as you take care to prevent any exposed electrical components from getting wet. 

Double-check the condition of the fins on the unit and straighten any bent ones with a fin comb or flat head screwdriver. Take care as these are very delicate and bend easily. Over manipulation can result in broken fins and reduced efficiency. Ensure the ground around the unit is clear of debris like leaves, etc.

Choose the Right Temperature

In Far North Queensland, the most suitable temperature to use is 24C all year round.

Remember that the higher the external temperature, the faster the indoor temperature will rise, causing a higher load on the equipment. Keeping your air conditioner set mid range will help save you money.

If you have Air Conditioning Problems, Consult a Professional

At Siv Air, our qualified technicians have the expertise needed to diagnose and repair faulty systems to get them back to peak performance. We also offer air conditioning services which help to improve the overall efficiency of your system. Regular AC Maintenance flushes out pollutants, dirt and other contaminants that can lurk in your air conditioning unit. 

We know how important it is to keep your home cool and keep your energy bills low. Whether it’s for a small bedroom, large living area or commercial space, Siv Air can not only install but supply you with affordable air conditioning systems from brands you can trust. If it’s time to upgrade that old AC unit, we’ve got you covered.

Contact us to learn more about how our air conditioning services can help you stay cool all year long.

Tips and Tricks to Prevent Air Conditioner Breakdowns

There are plenty of tips and tricks we recommend at home to keep your air conditioner from landing you in an inconvenient situation. Keeping your air conditioner in top shape around the summer is an important practice. While the good weather means plenty of fun and activities to be had outside, having your air conditioner ready at home can provide you with a cool, dry refuge from the heat.

Whether it’s taking a break from the sun, or trying to get comfortable before going to sleep, dropping the temperature by a couple degrees can feel like a blessing. But, without proper handling of your HVAC services, your air conditioner runs the risk of running inefficiently or giving out. Siv Air has got you covered with highly qualified repair technicians to get your air conditioner back up and running in case of a problem.

Keep A Scheduled Service Date For Your Air Conditioner

When winter comes to a close, it can help to have a regularly scheduled tuneup of your HVAC services.. The lifespan of your air conditioner depends on the regularity that a technician inspects and services your unit to ensure that you are getting optimal air flow and that all the parts to your air conditioner are in working condition.

Clean and Replace Your Air Filter Regularly

As your air conditioner cycles the air through your home, old air passes through an HVAC filter. This filter helps to catch particles and pollutants in the air that may not only damage the air conditioner itself, but your health as well! Make sure to familiarize yourself with the filter that your air conditioner uses. There are often several grades of filter, specialised for use in the homes of people with allergen sensitivity, respiratory disease, or other special circumstances. Some of these filters can be cleaned, and some can’t, so be sure to check the directions on maintaining each filter.

A general rule of thumb is to check your filter every 90 days, or about half that time with pets in the house. You can easily associate this kind of maintenance with other regular household duties, major house cleaning or making rent or credit payments.

You can also inspect morer in-depth issues with your unit

• Check your air conditioner for excess moisture, which may be associated with a clogged condensation line. Keeping this moisture under control can help prevent other damages such as mould.
• While the air conditioner is off, check the wiring in the condensing unit of the air conditioner for signs of wear or fraying, which will help prevent electrical failure.
• Inspect the fins of the condenser coils to make sure they are straight and clean.

These matters will likely require the attention of an HVAC professional, but at least you can get an idea of where problems may be lurking ahead of time and save yourself headaches in the long run!

Simple Home Insulation and Reducing Energy Use

When the hot weather approaches, the best measures to take in reducing the workload of your air conditioner are to keep the cool air in and hot air out. Keep doors and windows closed up tight, and make sure they are properly insulated. Close any curtains or blinds you may have on your windows, to keep radiant heat from the sun out. You may also opt for window treatments, which reduce the amount of heat that passes through them.

Try not to use anything in your home that would generate heat during the day. This includes running the oven or stove, or even having too many lights on. You may also choose a low or no heat option when washing dishes or clothes. Generally, reducing the amount of energy your home is using while the air conditioner is running will also help deter electrical issues and reduce costs.

You may also use additional fans, such as a ceiling fan or standing fan, to help cycle the air in a room. However, it should be noted to keep tabs on the energy being used, and only operate these fans in rooms that are occupied.

Smart Air Conditioner Use

Keeping the air conditioner from overworking itself can be difficult to approach, especially for those who plan to go out during the day. There’s no reason to leave the air conditioner running if nobody is at home. However, you also shouldn’t turn the air conditioner on too low later in the day, when it’s already hot, as it takes a lot of energy to cool a hot room than to keep a room cool.

You may opt for a programmable thermostat, which will help keep the pressure off your air conditioner by simply raising the temperature by a few degrees when the house will be empty, then it can begin cooling things off about a half of an hour before your return. Using more manual means, it helps to cool off the house in a graduated manner. Start at a few degrees under the current temperature, and slowly decrease the temperature by half of an hour.

Call the Experts

At Siv Air, our qualified technicians have the expertise needed to diagnose and repair faulty systems to get them back to peak performance. We also offer hydro clean services to improve the overall efficiency of your system and flush out pollutants, dirt and other contaminants that can lurk in your air conditioning unit.

We know how important it is to keep your home cool and keep your energy bills low. Whether it’s for a small bedroom, large living area or commercial space, Siv Air can not only install but supply you with affordable air conditioning systems from brands you can trust. If it’s time to upgrade that old AC unit, we’ve got you covered.

Contact us to learn more about how our air conditioning and refrigeration services can help you stay cool all year long.

Tips To Help Reduce Your AC Bill

Whether you’re trying to be more “green” or simply save yourself some money, this article is a must read. We have compiled some hot tips to help you reduce your AC bill. If you’ve been turning off lights and running a few loads of wash, but still haven’t seen a drop in your costs, you probably want to look at your AC! Even small problems with your air conditioner can cause your electric bill to get higher. Here’s some tips on what to look for and how to save more money every month.

Tip 1 -Check Your AC Filter

Most air conditioner manufacturers recommend that you change the filter anywhere from twice a year to every few months. However, if you have a lot of children or pets, or if you live in a dusty area, you may need to change it more often.

A clogged filter prevents proper airflow, which makes your air conditioner work harder. As a rule of thumb, the harder it works, the higher your bills! Make things easier and cheaper by changing your filter regularly.

Tip 2 – Set Your AC Thermostat Higher

We all love a cold blast of air when it’s blazing hot outside, but if you’re trying to cool your home, take it easy. The more that your AC tries to counteract warm temperatures, the harder it works. (And remember, that means higher bills!)

A single degree can have exponential effects on your energy usage. If it’s 30 degrees outside and you’ve set your thermostat to 20, your AC is spending a lot of power to adjust the temperature. By raising your thermostat just one degree to 21 degrees, you can save up to 10% on your bill! You probably won’t even notice the difference.

Tip 3 – Don’t Run the AC While You’re Out or Asleep

If no one is at home, you can afford to set your thermostat a bit higher. Remember, every degree can save you money! You don’t need to turn off the system entirely: raising your thermostat a few degrees is sufficient to keep the AC from kicking on while you’re not at home. Once you’re back, simply set the thermostat to your desired temperature. Modern thermostats are programmable so you can automatically turn up the AC while you’re at work.

And at night, you can take advantage of naturally cooler temperatures. There’s no need to run the AC to sleep comfortably. If you need a breeze, invest in a fan or open a couple of windows to allow a cross current. This simple trick can save you money every single night!

Tip 4 – Add Shade to Your Home

As the sun pours in, your home naturally gets warmer. Your AC will automatically kick on as the temperature rises. By maintaining the interior temperature, you can spare your air conditioner the trouble — and help reduce your AC bill! The easiest way to do this is to add shade.

Invest in sun-blocking curtains, hedges, shutters, or other methods to keep out the heat. Pay special attention to the windows that face the rising sun: those will heat up your home quickly if you’re not careful! Remember, every moment that the AC is running, it’s costing more energy. By keeping the temperature as stable as possible, you can save both energy and money.

Tip 5 – Check Your AC System for Dirt and Leaks

Leaky ductwork and filthy coils both spell higher AC bills. Your system works by transferring heat to the evaporator coils, then passing the resulting cool air throughout your home’s ducts. If either of these components are dirty or leaking, your system will have to work much harder to keep your home cool.

Dirty coils don’t work as efficiently, which means the system stays on longer as it attempts to pump refrigerant to cool the air. And if your ducts are leaking cool air into your attic, the system just keeps chugging along until the air reaches your desired temperature. If you hear your system running all the time or your home never seems to get cool, dirty coils and/or leaky ducts are the likely culprits.

Tip 6 – Make sure your Air Conditioner is isolated if you are not using it for long periods of time

Did you know that your air conditioners are still drawing power even when you are not running them. If you are not using your air conditioners over the cooler months, make sure you turn them off at their electrical isolator (located next to the outdoor unit) otherwise your air conditioner will continue to draw power the same as any other appliance in standby mode. With electricity prices soaring, small changes like this can make a difference.

Conclusion

You can reduce your AC bill with some simple modifications to your home and lifestyle. However, if your bills are still higher or if you suspect your system is dirty or leaking, it’s time to call in the experts. Proper air conditioner cleaning and maintenance will also help reduce your bills — plus prolong the life of your AC, which saves you money in the long run.

For professional air conditioning in the Cairns area, reach out to Siv Air. We inspect and clean all parts of your air conditioner to ensure optimal performance and help you save money on your power bill. Contact us today to get started.

Repair or Replace your AC unit – Tips That Could Save You Money

How Your Air Conditioner Could Be Costing You

Air conditioning units can be expensive, but they’re also a nightmare when they don’t work properly. Contrary to popular belief, it’s often more cost effective to get a new AC unit rather than continue repairing your old one. In this article, we’ll discuss some of the reasons why this is the case and warning signs that your old AC unit could be on its way out.

Lower Efficiency

All AC units have a energy rating. The higher the number of stars, the higher the efficiency.  The lower the number of stars, the more power the AC unit needs to function. Today, top of the line AC units have 4 or 5 stars. Depending on how old your unit is, your SEER may be as low as 1.

Wrong Size

Your AC unit could also be either too big or too small, and both can lead to inefficient heating. A licensed professional from Siv Air can come to your home and assess what size unit you need. They can also assess the efficiency of the airflow in your house.

Expensive Repairs

Older units need more repairs than new units do. It’s just a fact. Ultimately, the cost of a new unit will be outstripped by the repairs you would have had to do on the old unit anyway. A new AC unit should only need biannual repairs done. An old AC unit can rack up the bills if you need to replace a new part every time it’s serviced. However, if your unit is under warranty and you can have the repairs covered that way, or your warranty only requires you to pay labour costs, then you may want to simply use the warranty until it expires.

Incentives

If you do upgrade to a new AC unit, there may be rebates or discounts in store for you. Sometimes certain cities will offer incentives to upgrade your HVAC efficiency, and manufacturers and utility companies can offer rebates too. Do some research to see what kind of deals you can get in your town when installing a new AC unit.

Environmental Costs

Older AC units run on R22 gas, which depletes ozone. Hence, the government taxes it fairly heavily in order to discourage people from buying it. So if you’re investing in a new AC unit, you’re also saving yourself money that way.

When to Buy a New Unit

Now that we’ve established how a new AC unit can save you money, there’s the all-important question of “How do I know it’s time to replace my air conditioner?” Here are some signs that you may need to send your old AC unit to the afterlife (please have it responsibly recycled in order to protect the environment).

Age of the Unit

Typically, an air conditioner lasts about 10 years, so if your AC Unit has become a temperamental teenager, it’s probably worth replacing it. And if the outside part of the unit is rusty? It’s definitely time for a new one. The fan can’t work properly if it’s corroded and brittle, and you don’t need rust and debris going into your vents.

Cost of Maintenance is Greater Than Cost of Replacement

Here’s a helpful formula to determine whether or not you need to replace your unit: if the cost of your most recent or prospective AC repair multiplied by the age in years of the unit is greater than the cost of a new AC unit, then it’s time to replace it. For example, if your repair is going to cost you $500, and your unit is 15 years old, 500 x 15 = $7,500. A new AC unit typically costs around $5,000, so in this case, it’s more cost effective to simply replace the unit rather than repair it.

High Energy Bills

If your energy bills have been going up consistently but your utility company hasn’t changed its rates, this is a sign that your AC is doing, well, less with less.

It’s Just Not Cutting It Anymore

Older AC units sometimes just can’t keep up with modern needs. For example, rising environmental temperatures can render an older AC unit obsolete. A larger unit that runs more often is also less efficient than a smaller unit that runs less often, and AC units nowadays tend to be smaller. Additionally, old AC units can become noisy as they overexert themselves in order to keep up their duties. This is a sign that a replacement may be needed.

Cairns Air Conditioning Installation Services

Whether it’s AC installation, cleaning, or repair, Siv Air can help you increase your home’s energy efficiency, save you money, and ensure that the air quality in your home is the best it can be. Contact us today for any of your AC repair or replacement needs!

Health Hazards of a Dirty Air Conditioner

How a Dirty Air Conditioner Can Harm Your Family’s Health

It’s easy to forget about your air conditioner. If you’re able to breathe easily inside your home and you change the filter regularly, no problem, right? Not necessarily. Your air conditioner is essentially your home’s lungs, constantly collecting and filtering dust, hair, and more. Dirt accumulates over time, and before you know it, the air starts to smell a little funky. By then, you’re already breathing in years’ worth of debris. Yuck! A dirty air conditioner can negatively impact your family’s health, which is why a deep cleaning may be in order.

Poor Air Quality Leads to Respiratory Issues

If you have allergies, you probably want your home to be a safe refuge from pollen and other allergens. But if your air conditioner is dirty, it’s likely circulating those problematic particles throughout your home. Your filter can only do so much. If your AC is dirty, your allergies could be aggravated and you could experience other symptoms, such as frequent sneezing and coughing.

Dirty ACs can also raise your risk of respiratory disease. Studies have shown that they can contain everything from pesticides to heavy metals to dust mite feces. Constantly breathing in particles of mould, dust, dander, pollen, and synthetic materials can damage your airways and contribute to lasting health problems.

Dirty ACs Attract Pests

You likely clean your home and garage regularly to prevent rats, roaches, and other vermin from moving in. But what’s happening above the ceiling? Dirty ACs are the perfect breeding ground for pests who can then make their way into your home. Worse, they leave droppings and dander, and you could end up breathing in particles from that nastiness.

Also, these animals often carry pathogens and allergens, so their presence could make you sick even if you never come into direct contact with them. If your air conditioning system is dirty, you likely have some unwelcome and filthy house guests. And if they die inside your ACs, you’re in for some disgusting smells and potential pathogen spread.

Clogged Coils and Filters Lead to Moisture Build-up

Ideally, your home’s interior stays nice and dry. Your air conditioner plays a big role in that. When the evaporator coils are dirty, the condensation produced as the unit cools your home will accumulate. If you have a split system, you could have your drain back up with water, causing moisture to spread throughout the home.

As you might imagine, this causes some serious problems. High humidity levels make your ACs ideal for mould and mildew, which can contribute to respiratory problems. Bacteria such as Legionella also love warm, damp environments, and you definitely don’t want to breathe those in. Also, a dirty air conditioner will have to work harder, which means it’s likely to operate less efficiently — and therefore get even dirtier.

How to Clean Your Air Conditioner

As you can see, changing your filter is not nearly enough. Think of your air conditioner as a car. With regular use, its parts wear down and get clogged or dirty. You wouldn’t drive many kilometres every day and never change the oil or tires, right? Yet many people let their air conditioners go years without a proper cleaning.

The air wells, coils and barrel fans are the main areas where dirt can accumulate. This means that the unit itself wont’ work as well, and you’re inviting mould, vermin, and pathogens to take up residence within the system. Dust and debris don’t go away on their own. To get rid of them, you need to make aircon servicing a regular part of your home maintenance.

To fully protect and clean your system, you’ll need a professional air conditioner cleaning service. They have special equipment and techniques to remove debris and restore your air conditioner’s full functionality. If you’ve never had a deep cleaning done and you’ve had your system for at least a year, you’re definitely overdue.

Takeaways

Don’t delay — the health hazards of dirty aircons can sneak up quickly! A dirty air conditioner presents major concerns for your health and safety, and the problem won’t go away without professional treatment. Changing your filter is not enough. For optimal indoor air quality, call in professionals to deep clean your system. If it’s been a while, we recommend hydro cleaning, which allows all parts of the system to be cleaned spotless.

For professional air conditioning in the Cairns area, reach out to Siv Air. Our hydro cleaning service includes a complete inspection of your system and advanced sanitation techniques. It’s time to start breathing easier. Request an appointment today!

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