Author: Cassie Pound

Are you struggling with maintaining comfortable temperatures within your home? Call Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing today at (918) 262-5245 for a permanent fix!

Winter in Oklahoma is very uncomfortable. Temperatures can drop below freezing on some nights. It’s certainly not the time for uncertainties with your HVAC system. So, it can be frustrating when your house is colder than the thermostat setting, and you can’t figure out what you’re doing wrong or where the problem lies.

As a professional AC installation company in Tulsa, OK, we get calls from many homeowners in this situation. In our experience, the problem usually lies with the thermostat, the HVAC system, or the state of the property. We’ll cover the details in this post.

Problems With the Thermostat

Problems that affect the thermostat’s operation may bring a disparity in the numbers you see on the screen and what the temperatures feel like to anyone inside the house. Common problems include the following:

Dirty Thermostat

A dirty thermostat invariably means a dirty sensor. When the sensor is dirty, it will communicate a warmer reading to the thermostat, creating that imbalance between the numbers on the thermostat and the conditions inside your house.

Cleaning the thermostat resolves the problem. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations to prevent damage to the unit.

A Thermostat in the Wrong Location

If your house is colder than the thermostat setting, it’s a good idea to re-evaluate the thermostat’s positioning. If you’ve exposed the unit to direct sunlight or any appliances that generate heat, there’s a high probability you’ll get inaccurate readings.

The best position for your thermostat is around the center of your home and away from windows and doors.

Insufficient Power to the Thermostat

Weak or dead batteries can affect your thermostat’s performance. It’s easier to spot battery-related problems. Check for battery notifications, short cycling, and any other strange behaviors.

Replacing the batteries will solve the problem in most cases. Be sure to clean out corrosion and dirt from the contact points. If the batteries are still new and there’s no corrosion, the problem lies elsewhere. 

Damaged Wiring

If you’ve had the thermostat for a while, it’s a good idea to check the wiring for signs of damage. If the wiring is faulty, the thermostat will generate inaccurate readings, leaving your house feeling colder than it should be.

Remember that you should never attempt to fix faulty wiring on your own. It’s best to contact a professional to avoid potential accidents.

Unbalanced Thermostat

Do you have an older thermostat? You need to check to confirm that it’s level. Such thermostats have sensitive components, like a mercury switch. Therefore, if the unit isn’t level, you’ll notice a difference between the room temperature and the readings from the thermostat.

To balance the thermostat, open the cover to check and fix the subbase with a level. Once the subbase is level, screw back the thermostat cover.

We recommend switching to a smart programmable thermostat if you have older units that require balancing. However, until you complete the switch, fixing the balance should make your home feel as warm as you expect.

Problems With the HVAC System

If your house is colder than the thermostat setting and you’ve ruled out thermostat-related issues, it’s time to turn your attention to the components of your HVAC system, especially the furnace and heat pump.

Dirty Filters

The filters in HVAC systems are there to keep airborne contaminants from entering your home.

Ignoring filters for too long can lead to a buildup of dirt and debris, preventing warm air from reaching parts of your home. As a result, your house will feel colder, even when your HVAC system is working as it should.

Cleaning or replacing the filter in this scenario should restore your home’s temperatures to the desired levels, as more warm air can pass through the filters. Regular HVAC maintenance can prevent a recurrence.

Broken Components

If your filters are not dirty, you may have a broken or malfunctioning HVAC system. Dirty or worn flame sensors, blower motor problems, clogs in the condensate lines, and electrical issues are some of the many problems that can leave your HVAC system failing to deliver the temperatures you’ve programmed in your thermostat.

Undersized HVAC System

Using the wrong heating equipment size can cause various issues, including insufficient heating and inaccurate thermostat readings. When your furnace or heat pump system is too small for your home, it will take ages to deliver enough heat to match the thermostat’s reading—if it ever does.

Thus, you’ll rack up higher energy bills even while in discomfort. The furnace or heat pump will also wear out faster. If you suspect you have an undersized furnace, you should call in a qualified technician for confirmation and to find the right size unit for your home.

The technician may also recommend creating different temperature zones around your property instead of changing the entire HVAC system. Sometimes, combining a mini-split system with a central heating system is the more cost-effective option.

Problems With the Property Structure

Sometimes, it’s not the HVAC system or the thermostat. It might just be your house. You’ll likely notice that your house is colder than the thermostat setting if the following situations apply:

Poor Insulation

Your house will feel colder than the thermostat’s readings if the conditioned air is escaping outside. Unfortunately, ignoring your home’s insulation is easy until it becomes a major issue. Drafty windows or doors are easier to notice, but how about your attic or crawlspace?

For example, the R-value (thermal rating) for attics in Oklahoma is R30-R49. It’s difficult to reach those numbers if you have decayed fiberglass batts in your attic.

Heat rises. Therefore, poor insulation in the attic means that any hot air from your HVAC system will escape upward within a few minutes of entering the living areas. As a result, you’ll notice a disparity in the thermostat’s readings and the temperature within your house.

Poor insulation is also bad news in terms of heating system efficiency. The HVAC system will work harder than normal, wearing out components faster and increasing energy bills.

A quick test to confirm your home’s insulation quality is to touch the walls, ceiling, and floor in winter. If they feel dry and warm, your home has decent insulation. Otherwise, you should call in a professional to discuss improvements.

Leaky Ductwork

The warm air from your HVAC system will travel through the air ducts to the rest of your home. If there are any air leaks in the system, you’ll lose the bulk of the heat before it can enter your home.

You’ll need professional help to spot gaps or leaks within your ductwork.

Get Definitive Answers From Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing 

As you’ve seen in this article, it’s hard to know what the problem might be if your house is colder than the thermostat setting. Once you’ve done the basic troubleshooting, like checking the thermostat batteries or thermostat calibration, you’re better off calling a professional HVAC technician to determine the root of the problem without any guesswork.

That’s where we excel here at Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing. Whether you have a faulty thermostat or a broken furnace combustion mechanism, you can trust us to find the problem and implement a lasting solution in the shortest time possible.

Ready to book an appointment? Call Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing today at (918) 262-5245 for answers to your questions, service, and more.

Are you sick of high energy costs and how much you’re paying just to keep your home cool? If you’re searching, “Why is my AC bill so high?” keep reading to discover the answers.

As Tulsa’s AC repair experts, Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing works hard to keep your HVAC system working and your energy bills lower.

1. Dirty Air Filter

As an air filter accumulates dust or dirt, it reduces your air conditioner’s airflow, forcing it to work harder to produce the same results. This uses significantly more energy than when your device puts in minimal effort to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.

While some air conditioners can use premium air filters that last up to 90 days, you should check most filters every 30 days. If the filter has a thick layer of dust, replace or clean it (depending on the type). If you own pets, have a smoker in the house, experience allergies or respiratory issues, or live in an area with heavy pollution, you’ll likely need to change your filter more frequently.

2. Leaking Air Ducts

Your ductwork is responsible for transporting your treated air throughout your home. In a healthy system, the ductwork is completely sealed and doesn’t lose much air as it travels from the air conditioner into your room.

However, over time, the ductwork can spring leaks or develop tears. When your ductwork leaks air, your home doesn’t cool as effectively, and your air conditioner must run harder and longer before it reaches your desired temperature.

3. Broken Components

Depending on the broken components, your air conditioner could still function while needing repairs. However, though it can function when its blower, compressor, or capacitor aren’t fully functional, its cooling ability suffers. As always, when the air conditioner works harder and longer, it increases your energy bills.

Fixing your air conditioner should restore it to full efficiency and lower your utility bills.

4. Wrong Size Air Conditioner

You need the right size air conditioner to efficiently and effectively cool your home, and if it’s too large or small, your energy bills suffer.

If your device is too small, it can’t adequately keep up with the demand, and you’ll end up running it constantly.

If your air conditioner is too large, it cools your home too quickly and rapidly turns on and off. This quickly ages your unit and uses a significant amount of energy.

When you upgrade to a high-efficiency air conditioner that’s the correct size for your home, you’ll see your energy bills drastically decrease. Your HVAC specialist can help you determine which air conditioner is best for your home or business.

5. Low Refrigerant

If you’re wondering, “Why is my AC bill so high?” it could be your air conditioner’s refrigerant levels. The refrigerant is responsible for transporting heat out of your home and leaving you with cool air. Though a sealed system houses the refrigerant, as it ages, it can develop leaks.

If you notice your air conditioner expelling lukewarm air, the refrigerant is the likely problem. Running your device longer won’t help. Instead, call an HVAC technician to repair the leak and restore the refrigerant levels to normal.

6. Ignored Maintenance

The most important thing you can do for your air conditioner is to schedule regular maintenance. However, many homeowners ignore it because they believe it’s an unnecessary expense. Without maintenance, your air conditioner will break and run less efficiently, costing you more money over time than you’d save on regular maintenance.

Schedule maintenance once a year, preferably in the spring, to adequately prepare your air conditioner for heavy summer usage. Some homeowners prefer to schedule a second maintenance check in the fall to determine how much wear and tear the device suffered over the hot months.

7. Age

With regular maintenance and moderated usage, your air conditioner should last between 15 and 20 years. However, no matter how well you care for it, as the device ages, it will run less efficiently.

Is your air conditioner running well, but you still notice higher energy bills? You might find it more cost-effective to replace it with a newer model.

8. Improper Installation

Even the most experienced HVAC technician can make mistakes while installing your air conditioner. Whether it has a missing part, bad connection, or isn’t properly sealed, all these issues can severely affect your energy bills.

A more experienced technician can fix the problem and return your energy bills to an acceptable level.

9. Constant Usage

You might think running your air conditioner constantly is best to help maintain the comfort in your home. However, constantly running your air conditioner uses a lot of energy and reduces your device’s life expectancy. To moderate how often you use your air conditioner without sacrificing comfort, follow these tips:

• Set your thermostat to 78 degrees.
• Use ceiling fans to help the air feel cooler.
• Use UV-blocking window treatments to reduce the heat your home gains by up to 45%.
• Most importantly, don’t use your air conditioner when you’re not home to enjoy the cool air.
• If you want to come home to cool air, consider installing a programmable or smart thermostat to turn on roughly 20 minutes before you return home.

10. Poor Insulation

Insulation determines how much air leaks through your home, and a lack of insulation in your attic, windows, and doors can force your air conditioner to work much harder. An HVAC technician can perform tests to determine where you lack insulation and then take steps to improve it.

Contact Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing To Save Money on Your Energy Bills

If you’re wondering, “Why is my AC bill so high?” consider any of the above reasons. Whether you experience weak air conditioner airflow or don’t know how to replace your filter, Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing can help with every problem. We’re quality to the core, and we work hard to ensure you’re always satisfied.

To see what we can do for you or to schedule an appointment, call us at 918-262-5245.

Ensure your HVAC’s energy efficiency with air balancing from Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing. Request your appointment today!

One of the most frustrating aspects of relying on an HVAC system to keep indoor temperatures comfortable is discovering hot and cold spots inside your home. These uneven temperatures could be due to an unbalanced heating and cooling unit, so learning how to balance an HVAC system is integral to your comfort and energy consumption.

Ideally, an HVAC system will undergo air balancing during its installation. Yet, loose damper settings or a change in heating and cooling needs could result in an imbalance, leaving one or more rooms feeling less comfortable than others. 

Learn more about HVAC air balancing with these tips from a trusted heating and cooling company in Tulsa, OK, below.

Understand the Importance of Balancing an HVAC System

If you have an unbalanced HVAC system, you won’t experience consistent temperatures throughout your home. Air balancing HVAC systems that use ducts to transport air also have thermometer sensors that ensure each room gets the right amount of heated or chilled air to maintain a consistent temperature. 

Though comfort is a top benefit of balancing an HVAC unit, the process also improves indoor air quality. As air circulates through the system, its filter catches airborne contaminants like pollen, dust, and pet dander. Air becomes cleaner faster when the HVAC system circulates air at its proper rate. 

You should also balance your HVAC system to improve its functionality and longevity. When these systems operate at peak performance, they aren’t likely to develop premature wear and tear from an undue strain on their components. They won’t have to work harder to produce and maintain temperatures, so you’ll spend less time and money on HVAC repairs. 

Have the Right Documentation

The first step in learning to balance an HVAC system is having the right documentation to tell you how the system should perform. HVAC technicians refer to various pieces of information to help them make essential adjustments like:

• Air duct layouts
• Duct design calculations
• Control documentation
• Equipment specs

Not all homeowners have this information, especially if they weren’t responsible for their existing HVAC system’s installation. If you don’t have documentation, create a sketch of the air duct system with a tracking chart showing the airflow of every inlet and outlet. 

Make Sure Your System Is Running Under Its Design Conditions

When your HVAC unit runs, it should operate within its design parameters or be as close to them as possible. To determine whether your unit meets its design conditions, open all volume and splinter dampers and check the fan speed. Then, ensure the air pressure is within its design parameters with a static pressure reading. 

You also want to ensure the HVAC unit’s accessories, like its air filter, are in place. With the air filter, ensure it’s clean to maximize airflow. 

Record Airflows on All Supply Outlets

When measuring the system’s airflow, a vane anemometer makes the task a snap. Use the tool on every inlet and outlet and document them. If you have a sketch of your air duct system, you can record the readings there to compare them to previous readings, if applicable. 

Adjust Dampers

Depending on the airflow readings, you may need to adjust the balancing dampers on certain outlets. Each damper has a wingnut you can use to open the dampers in branch ducts. 

Keep recording airflow and adjusting dampers until the outlets with the most airflow are within 10% of the HVAC system’s design. 

Get Professional Help With Air Balancing Your HVAC Unit

Despite knowing how to balance an HVAC system, it’s a job you should leave to the professionals. Experienced HVAC contractors have the expertise to adjust the system to ensure optimal performance throughout the property. They also have access to professional tools like hygrometers for checking humidity and manometers for taking static pressure readings. 

Professional air balancing is also ideal over DIY attempts because technicians can quickly identify other reasons your system might not perform optimally. For example, they can install new dampers if the existing ones are faulty or damaged. 

Follow Best Practices for HVAC Air Balancing

You can improve your HVAC system’s performance by not putting furniture near vents. Anything that impedes airflow through the HVAC unit will cause uneven heating and cooling throughout the house and excessive energy consumption. Furniture, bookcases, and other structures should be at least 18 inches from floor vents and wall registers. 

It’s also helpful to keep electronic equipment away from your thermostat. Electronics produce heat, which can trick the thermostat into triggering the heating and cooling system, forcing it to turn on or shut off prematurely. Televisions and computer monitors are the biggest culprits of this problem that people often overlook.

Finally, you should maintain your HVAC system properly to keep everything running smoothly. All components must work together to maximize the system’s output without consuming excessive energy. 

Proper maintenance includes changing your air filter at least once per season, or monthly if you have pets or allergies. Dirty air filters restrict airflow, causing debris to accumulate inside your heating and cooling equipment and dropping the indoor air quality. 

Professional HVAC maintenance is also essential because technicians will inspect your home’s air ducts for leaks and damage. Air duct leaks are a common element in uneven heating and cooling inside a building, so routine duct inspections are a must to ensure that heated and chilled air reaches all rooms accordingly. 

Get the Best HVAC Care From Tulsa’s Top HVAC Company

Now that you know how to balance an HVAC system, let Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing’s professional technicians give your equipment the care it deserves. As Tulsa, OK’s top heating and cooling company, our local, well-trained crew has years of experience providing reliable HVAC services. Whether you need to repair your AC or install a surge protector for your HVAC, we’re the company to call.

Request your appointment with Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing at (918) 262-5245. 

Don’t neglect your heat pump—call Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing to schedule routine maintenance today!

Heat pumps are an excellent type of HVAC system with dual heating and cooling capabilities. They are a great way to make your home more energy-efficient. But do heat pumps need annual maintenance?

In this guide, the heat pump experts share how often you should schedule heat pump maintenance, as well as why it’s important. When your heat pump is due for maintenance, why not turn to Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, a trusted heating contractor in Tulsa, OK?

How Heat Pumps Differ From Other HVAC Equipment

The standard HVAC setup for most homes used to be a separate heater and air conditioner. Each system has its own mechanics and operates in different seasons. However, heat pumps bridge the gap, doing the same job as your furnace and air conditioner in one simple package.

Heat pumps act as a dual system for heating and cooling so that you can cut down on the amount of equipment in your home. It works by transferring existing warm or cool air outside, depending on whether you want to cool or heat your home. These systems are also environmentally friendly since they don’t produce heat with combustion and instead use a renewable source. 

However, the differences don’t stop there. Heat pumps also require different maintenance compared to furnaces and air conditioners. It’s a simpler system, and twice-yearly maintenance keeps it running smoothly.

Types of Heat Pumps We Service

Think of the countless types of furnaces or air conditioners available. One home may use a gas-powered furnace and window air conditioning units, while another may have an electric furnace and a ductless cooling system. There is just as much variety when it comes to heat pumps, but the most common models include the following:

• Air-source heat pumps: These pumps take any warm or cool air outside and transfer it into your home. They’re also available as a ductless model. 
• Ground-source heat pumps: Also known as geothermal heat pumps, these units transfer heat between your house and the ground or a nearby water source. It is one of the most energy-efficient heat pumps on the market with very low operating costs, though it does cost more to install.
• Absorption heat pumps: These systems use renewable energy sources like solar power, air, and geothermal water to supply your home with heat, along with natural gas. 

Fortunately, a team like Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing can install a new heat pump, issue repairs, and perform routine maintenance on all types of heat pumps to meet your heating and cooling demands.

How Often Do Heat Pumps Need Maintenance?

So, do heat pumps need annual maintenance, or is it better to do it more twice a year? All HVAC systems should receive annual maintenance. However, given that heat pumps work throughout the winter and summer months, twice-yearly maintenance is essential. 

Two regular tune-ups ensure your system works properly at the start of each heating and cooling season. It’s best to schedule your maintenance appointments during the spring and fall so that a qualified technician can address any issues with your system. This way, you avoid dealing with a broken heat pump in the middle of a heat wave or a frigid home when bitter-cold temperatures hit. 

Some people will supplement their heat pump with a furnace, just in case they can’t rely on one system to stay warm. If you use a heat pump only as a backup source of heat in the winter, it’s still in your best interest to service it. Why not have a local technician perform maintenance on both systems each fall so that you can have reliable heating for the months ahead?

What To Expect During a Heat Pump Tune-Up Service

What does a maintenance appointment include for a heat pump? When you call a team like Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing for heat pump maintenance, you’ll have licensed technicians arrive and follow a detailed checklist. The goal is to leave you with a heat pump in excellent condition so that it provides you with reliable heating and cooling year-round. 

The professionals achieve this by including the following items in every maintenance checklist:

• Inspect and clean the filters, coils, motor blower, and air ducts 
• Check for leaky air ducts and seal damaged ones
• Adjust refrigerant levels 
• Lubricate the motor
• Check belts for wear
• Inspect the heat pump’s thermostat
• Tighten any loose electrical connections
• Run tests to optimize performance levels

If the team happens to find any minor issues in your system, they typically conduct repairs on the spot. That way, you won’t have to worry about having the system break down unexpectedly.

Benefits of Scheduling Twice-Yearly Maintenance

Why do heat pumps need annual maintenance? When you let a professional technician service your heat pump, you can enjoy a wide range of benefits. For one thing, a proper tune-up helps counteract wear and tear so that your system can last longer.

Maintenance is also a great way to boost your system’s performance and energy efficiency. In fact, the Department of Energy estimates that regular tune-ups can make your heat pump up to 25% more efficient. As a result, you can experience:

• Lower energy bills each month
• Money savings that would go toward heat pump repairs or replacement
• A more comfortable home throughout the winter and summer months

How To Maintain Your Heat Pump

HVAC technicians recommend regularly cleaning your heat pump’s air filter to avoid serious problems. The air filter blocks dust, dirt, pollen, and more from entering your HVAC system. If the filter clogs, the heat pump could malfunction.

A simple way to prevent repairs and mechanical damage is to change your filter on a routine basis. Swapping out dirty filters every month will keep your system running efficiently. However, if you smoke or have pets, you may need to change the filter more frequently.

Other steps you can take include cleaning the outdoor coils since any trace of debris can reduce the heat pump’s airflow. Shut off the fan and clean the blades, but for safety reasons, call an expert if you think it needs a mechanical inspection.

Make Heat Pump Maintenance Effortless With a Membership Plan

Many people who ask about maintenance are wary of the costs involved. However, the right team should make payment and scheduling easy. For example, the Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing team offers an annual membership plan to cover your heat pump maintenance at a discounted rate.

If you decide to go with this kind of arrangement, you could even customize your heat pump’s maintenance plan for better value for money. For example, think about whether you want to only pay for one system or add other pieces of equipment to the service, such as plumbing appliances. A typical membership plan usually includes two annual HVAC inspections and discounts on repairs to give you peace of mind year-round.

Schedule Routine Heat Pump Maintenance Today

So, do heat pumps need annual maintenance beyond what’s offered in a membership plan? No, they should run optimally after these tune-ups. However, if you have concerns, it’s best to chat with an experienced service provider like Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing about how to keep your system in top-notch condition all year long. Why not let us perform spring and fall maintenance to ensure your heat pump works in the summer and the winter? Call Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing at 918-262-5245 today!

When you need a new air conditioner, lean on a professional HVAC company like Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing. Call us today!

Summers in Tulsa, Oklahoma, can be hot and humid, so staying comfortable indoors is only possible with access to perfectly chilled air. Air conditioners carry an average lifespan of around 15 years, but a replacement will come around eventually. 

With the rise of the guides and tutorials on the web, should you consider replacing your own system to save costs? No. And there are several reasons why you should not install ACs yourself.

Read on as Tulsa’s AC installation experts, Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, explain more about the dangers and complications that often accompany DIY AC installations.

A Lack of Expertise Risks Mistakes and Cooling Issues

No amount of internet research makes up for the years of hands-on training that professional HVAC technicians undergo to perform air conditioning services. You shouldn’t install ACs yourself if you value your safety and want an air conditioner that works flawlessly. 

Air conditioning systems come in many styles, types, brands, sizes, capacities, and outputs, and purchasing the wrong unit and incorrectly installing it can cause significant problems. You also have to consider other factors, like ensuring the home has sufficient ductwork for a central unit or getting the permits to install the system. 

Handling the job as a DIY project also means you will spend more time researching steps, acquiring materials, and attempting the installation. A professional HVAC company can finish the job quickly and correctly. With an experienced team, the technicians will handle all the details and complete the HVAC system installation without issues.

Installing or Repairing an Air Conditioner Yourself Could Render the Warranty Void

Installing an AC unit yourself might void your warranty agreement. Manufacturers often include warranties for quality assurance on their products. But these free or discounted repairs for a predetermined time won’t help you spend less out-of-pocket if you jeopardize the terms.

A manufacturer will typically only uphold the warranty for professional installations and repairs. Without that warranty, you will be responsible for all the costs that follow, including replacing the unit if your installation has damaged it beyond repair.

Handling Complications With the New Cooling System Takes Some Experience and Expertise

Installing an air conditioner requires more than purchasing the unit and plugging it in. You have to consider several factors before you can begin the installation, including the following:

• What’s the proper air conditioner size for your home’s square footage?
• What kind of product quality do you want to get?
• Will the unit cover the total cooling needs for the home?
• What’s your budget for installation and monthly energy expenses?
• How will you approach the removal and disposal of the old unit?

Many things can go wrong during an air conditioning installation. Without the right experience, tools, and know-how, incorrectly installing the system could mean higher-than-necessary energy use, strain on the components, and skyrocketing utility bills. You could end up paying more to repair the cooling system’s faulty installation than just hiring a professional to install it. 

An installation that goes wrong leads to many issues. Some of the common ones include uneven cooling, energy inefficiency, and a less comfortable interior. So, rather than install ACs yourself, it is better to rely on a licensed HVAC service with ample experience installing and replacing all types of cooling units. 

Incorrect Installation Will Always Lead to Equipment Damage

Dealing with an inefficient air conditioner isn’t the only problem stemming from inaccurate installations; you could also damage the equipment. Air conditioners might look strong, but they house complex networks of delicate components. Incorrect handling will easily loosen or break these parts, forcing the system to compensate for the faulty component, overwork, and even fail.

It’s risky to attempt an installation without expert help because if you accidentally break or dislodge something in the air conditioning unit, you might notice. Besides a poorly performing air conditioner, you could also run the risk of safety issues, fire hazards, and early replacement costs. Conversely, an experienced technician like those at Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing will know how to correctly handle the HVAC equipment, instantly identify faulty components, and replace them. 

Water, Electricity, and Chemicals Together Mean Safety Issues

One way homeowners underestimate this process is by missing the potential health hazards that come with refrigerant exposure. Refrigerant is a chemical that changes from liquid to gas during the heat transfer process. It helps remove warmth from the indoor air and disperse it outdoors by flowing through several coils and lines in its gas and liquid forms. 

However, refrigerant is also toxic, so installing a new AC requires safely handling refrigerant. Doing so incorrectly could expose you to serious health risks, such as:

• Vision loss
• Throat pain
• Breathing problems
• Skin irritation
• Throat swelling

Despite the necessity and usefulness of refrigerant, it will pose a danger to you and your household if it leaks from the unit. It is also harmful to the environment. Fortunately, licensed HVAC technicians know how to safely handle and dispose of refrigerant. 

Another safety issue that comes from AC installations is potential injuries. Most air conditioning units are heavy and hard to move. Incorrectly lifting or shifting these heavy objects can bring dire consequences, including straining your back muscles to move the equipment instead of using the strength and stability within your legs. Professionals will use supportive equipment to avoid painful sprains, strains, and other injuries on the job.

Property owners must also consider the electrical aspects of air conditioner installation. Any electrical work without training and knowledge is incredibly dangerous, including working with electrical wires, switches, outlets, and connections without taking the proper precautions. If you want to avoid electrical shocks, potential electrocution, or electrical fires, it’s best to entrust the complex air conditioning installation process to someone who has the credentials to do it safely. 

Badly Installed Appliances and Workmanship Will Reduce Your Home’s Market Value

Even if you do manage to install your air conditioner without a licensed technician, you might risk lowering your home’s value when it comes time to sell it. One reason is the constant need for repairs and reinstallations, which is typical for homes where people install systems themselves instead of hiring a qualified HVAC company. If potential buyers see they have to spend money on a badly installed climate control system and excessive energy consumption, you can expect lower offers, if you get any at all.

Homebuyers typically prefer to purchase properties with fully functional HVAC systems that adhere to all local building codes and safety standards. So, while you might think it saves money on AC installation costs to install the system yourself, you might pay much more for it when you find yourself with a dismal return on investment.

Connect With Tulsa’s Top HVAC Company for AC Installation Today!

When skilled technicians handle an installation, they pick up on potential problems and create effective, innovative solutions to minimize the risk of discomfort and system inefficiency. No HVAC task is too much for our experts at Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, whether it’s recharging old air conditioners or installing new units. We’re a Tulsa, OK-based HVAC and plumbing company with years of experience delivering the quality that local residents expect from a top-rated service. 

Would you like access to comprehensive services using industry-leading products, tools, and methods? Don’t install ACs yourself-call Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing at 918.276.7151 today to book an installation appointment in Oklahoma.

Air filters play a crucial role in your air conditioner’s performance, longevity, and even your home’s indoor air quality. Although most AC units require a fresh air filter every month or so, many people forget to change them and don’t understand their importance.

So, what happens if you don’t change your air conditioner filter? Quality Heating, Cooling, & Plumbing put together a few problems that can occur if you don’t keep up with your air filter’s change schedule.

Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing is your trusted AC repair company in Tulsa, OK. If your air conditioning system breaks down and you need quick and efficient service, contact Quality Heating, Cooling, & Plumbing.

5 Reasons Why You Must Replace Your Air Conditioner’s Filter

The air filter is one of the most essential yet often underappreciated parts of your air conditioner. It prevents dust, dirt, debris, and other contaminants from polluting your conditioned air, ensuring your home has clean, healthy indoor air throughout the year. Fresh air filters also help your unit operate at its highest efficiency level, allowing your family to beat the heat once Tulsa’s warm summer weather takes hold. 

However, failing to replace your air conditioner’s filter regularly can jeopardize your unit, leaving it vulnerable to everything from excessive wear and tear to reduced airflow. Continue on to learn what happens if you don’t change your air conditioner’s filter.

1. More Frequent Repairs

Dirty air filters can restrict airflow and put tremendous stress on the air conditioner. The additional, unnecessary stress leaves your AC unit more prone to malfunctions and can even cause it to break down on excessively hot days. Without a functioning air conditioner, you can’t keep your home cool, making it nearly unbearable to occupy.

Regularly replacing your air filter will help your unit stay in tip-top shape while potentially increasing its performance. It can prevent you from spending a small fortune on repairs that could have otherwise been avoided with a fresh filter. 

2. Higher Energy Bills

Your air conditioner is one of the biggest determining factors in your monthly energy costs. While fresh air filters can improve airflow and reduce unit stress, dirty or clogged air filters have the opposite effect, causing your system to work harder to adequately cool your residence. This can skyrocket your energy bills, forcing you to pay more money for substandard cooling.

Replacing your air filter will diminish your HVAC system’s energy demands while enhancing its overall performance. It’s one of the best ways to keep your payments affordable without sacrificing your home’s interior comfort.

3. Reduced Indoor Air Quality

Your air conditioner’s filter acts as the last and only line of defense against airborne pollutants. It prevents dust and debris from tainting your home’s indoor air, ensuring your family breathes clean air wherever they are at home. That said, dirty air filters can’t safeguard your home’s indoor air from contaminants and can drastically reduce your indoor air quality.

Changing the air filter will restore your unit’s filtration abilities, preventing dust, pollen, and more from polluting your home’s indoor air quality. Clean indoor air can also decrease allergy symptom severity while preventing several other potential health issues.

4. Increased Wear and Tear

Every air conditioner experiences wear and tear over time. However, dirty air filters can increase the amount of wear and tear affecting your system, causing it to break down sooner rather than later. The longer you wait to replace the air filter, the worse the wear and tear becomes, drastically decreasing your unit’s life expectancy. In fact, a dirty air filter can reduce your unit’s lifespan by five to 10 years!

Although you could repair or replace the worn mechanisms inside your air conditioner, it’s much more costly than changing your air filter once a month (depending on your AC unit’s recommended filter schedule). Routinely changing your air conditioning system’s air filter will help you elongate your unit’s lifespan while saving you hundreds on unit repairs later on.

5. Poor Air Distribution

Since dirty air filters restrict airflow, they can prevent your air conditioner and ductwork from distributing comfortable air evenly throughout your home. This makes it difficult to maintain your desired interior climate, making it feel hotter during the summer and colder during the winter. Replacing the filter will substantially improve airflow, allowing your air conditioner to disseminate cool air throughout your residence.

It’s important to note that sometimes dirty air ducts can cause poor temperature regulation as well. If you still experience uneven room temperatures or inadequate cooling after changing the air filter, clean your air ducts and see if it resolves the issue.

How Often Should You Change Your Air Filter?

Most residential air conditioners need a new air filter every 30 to 60 days. However, there are a few factors that can alter the schedule. 

For example, a single-occupant home without pets typically won’t have to change its air filter as much as a large-family home with multiple pets. Below are a few situations that can extend or shorten an air filter’s replacement frequency and the recommended schedule:

• An average family home without pets: 90 days
• An average family home with one pet: 60 days
• An average family home with several pets and/or occupants that suffer allergies: 20 to 45 days
• A single-occupant home with no pets or a vacation home: Six to 12 months

Always read your HVAC’s owner’s manual and talk to a professional technician to learn your air conditioner’s air filter replacement schedule.

Contact Quality Heating, Cooling, & Plumbing for Exceptional HVAC Services in Tulsa, OK

Next time your air conditioner needs a new filter, and you wonder, “What happens if you don’t change an air conditioner’s filter?” contact Quality Heating, Cooling, & Plumbing. Our team will assess your unit and determine its filter replacement requirements to ensure optimal air conditioner airflow and performance. Give Quality Heating, Cooling, & Plumbing a call at (918) 276-7151 and see what our technicians can do for you today!

Power surges can damage your electronic appliances, HVACs included. If you are worried about power surge damage, consider investing in a surge protector. Surge protectors can stop destructive discharges in the event of power surges. The team at Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing is here to answer the question: Do I need a surge protector for my HVAC?

Contact the best heating and cooling company in Tulsa today!

What Is a Surge Protector?

Power surges can occur without warning, so many homeowners install surge protectors to safeguard their electronics. Surge protectors are special systems that attach to your circuit box to neutralize power surges. 

When a surge occurs, the protector activates and channels the excess electricity safely into a ground circuit. Think of a surge protector as a sponge that absorbs electricity and squeezes it out elsewhere. 

What Causes Power Surges?

Before discussing surge protectors, it’s important to know what a power surge entails. Power surges happen when voltages spike much higher than normal levels. They can happen randomly or result from problems with your electrical grid. Power surges may follow several high-electricity events, including but not limited to the following:

• Faulty wiring, which can draw too much current, causing a power surge in your home. 
• Lightning strikes, which also cause massive power surges and fires. 
• Overloaded circuits, which put too much current through the wires, potentially causing damage to any connected appliances. 
• Electrical grid problems, which send an excess of electricity into your home, leading to power surges. 
• Downed power lines, which are a common cause of blackouts, brownouts, and power surges. They are also fire hazards. 

When it comes to power surges, it’s not a matter of if but when. When power spikes, the increased voltage travels down through your circuit box, damaging individual electrical circuits along the way. It can also damage appliances that are plugged into outlets. 

If the electricity levels get too high, certain electrical components in your home could explode. A surge protector helps by minimizing those levels, thus lessening the chances of a spike. 

How Do Power Surges Affect Your HVAC?

Power surges pose a big danger to your electrical components. More specifically, power surges can overload your HVAC capacitor and damage the circuit board, rendering the system inoperable. Power surges can also short out the compressor, which controls the cycling rate. 

Do I Need a Surge Protector for My HVAC?

Strictly speaking, you do not need a power surge protector for your HVAC. However, we highly recommend buying and installing one if you are worried about power outages. One of the main reasons to consider a surge protector is that HVAC warranties often don’t cover repairs for damages from power surges. A surge protector can protect your AC unit so you don’t void the warranty. 

Given that the typical HVAC lasts about 20 years, a surge protector will quickly pay for itself. Buying a surge protector now is a better idea than shelling out for expensive repairs if a power surge occurs and damages your HVAC, in which case you may need to shell out for a new unit. 

Surge Protector Options

Homeowners have three primary options when it comes to purchasing a surge protector. 

Whole-Home Surge Protectors

Whole-home surge protectors are supposed to cover your entire house and attach to the circuit box where the main power line enters your home. These kinds of surge protectors are ideal for mitigating electrical surges from the power grid and external sources. 

Secondary Surge Protectors

Secondary surge protectors protect against power surges in different plugs. These surge protectors are most useful if you need to protect individual appliances, like copiers, fax machines, TVs, stereos, and more. 

Power Strip Surge Protectors

Power strips are an alternative to secondary surge protectors that let you attach multiple individual devices. These kinds of surge protectors are great for consumer electronics like TVs but are not suitable for HVAC systems because they cannot handle high voltages and currents. 

How To Choose the Right Surge Protector

If you are in the market for a surge protector, be sure you consider the following features and properties to make the right choice. 

Joules

Surge protectors are not all-powerful and cannot withstand all electricity levels. Each surge protector has a joule rating indicating the highest amount of energy it can handle. For most smaller surge protectors, the maximum amount they can handle will be between 1,000 and 2,000 joules. Larger equipment might require a higher joule rating of over 2,000. A whole-home surge protector can withstand up to 4,000 joules or higher. 

Failure Indicators

Most surge protectors have LED lights that indicate their current status. Ensure you get a protector with an easy-to-read display so you can identify whether it’s working at a glance. 

Warranties

If you buy a protector from a reputable manufacturer, it’s likely to come with some kind of warranty. Just ensure you read the fine print so you know the exact conditions that the surge protector is covered under. 

Is Investing in a Surge Protector a Good Idea?

Yes, investing in surge protection is a good idea. The appropriate surge protector can safeguard your HVAC unit and other electrical components in the event of a power outage, saving you a lot of money on repairs and replacement. A surge protector could prevent the wear and tear of electrical systems due to random power fluctuations, making it an integral part of proper HVAC upkeep. 

Also, a surge protector is like an insurance policy to protect your HVAC warranty. Without it, you might have to pay for expensive repairs or replacements after a power outage. 

Quality Heating and Cooling Services

Now that you know the answer to the question, “Do I need a surge protector for my HVAC?” read our blog to learn more about HVAC registers. Contact us online or give Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing a call today at (918) 393-4577 to schedule an appointment!

Do you need reliable HVAC maintenance, repair, or installation services? Call 918-276-7151 today to reach your trusted professionals at Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing!

Throughout the year, home and business owners are at constant war with the weather. They must maintain their HVAC systems to stay cool or warm as temperatures rise and fall. Eventually, the many components within heating and cooling systems break down and fail to perform, leading to a need for swift replacements.

So, how much does it cost to replace an HVAC blower motor? Because several different factors play into the price of a new blower motor, the answer is not as straightforward as you might think. We’ll discuss all aspects of HVAC blower motor costs to help home and business owners know what they’ll need to set aside to restore their comfort in the most efficient way. 

As Tulsa’s trusted heating contractor, Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing knows the ins and outs of HVAC systems. We can inspect the unit, provide efficient maintenance and repairs, or recommend the ideal replacement part. Contact us today for more information or to schedule professional service.

What Is an HVAC Blower Motor?

HVAC blower motors are vital components of all heating and cooling systems. When a user sets the thermostat to a specific temperature, the thermostat sends a message to the heating or cooling system telling it to turn on. When the unit receives the message, the blower motor kicks in and turns on the fan.

Depending on the building’s HVAC setup, the fan blows hot or cold air out of the system into the building’s air ducts or directly into specific rooms. The heated or cooled air helps lower and raise the temperature to meet comfort preferences.

The Importance of a Properly Functioning HVAC Blower Motor

The HVAC blower motor is indispensable, allowing the system to function as it should. Without the blower motor, the unit’s fan won’t turn on, and the building or room won’t receive the hot or cold air it requires to establish and maintain the desired temperature.

The blower motor is central to the comfort of a home or business. If it functions improperly or not at all, those living and working within the building will immediately notice the difference. Meanwhile, a poor blower motor can cause the HVAC system to work inefficiently, leading to increased monthly energy bills. It may even reduce indoor air quality by decreasing airflow within the building. 

Causes of HVAC Blower Motor Failure

There are many causes of HVAC blower motor failure. While home and business owners can avoid some of these by scheduling regular system maintenance, others may arise despite the effort. If they do, professional HVAC technicians can inspect the system and recommend blower motor repair or replacement.

The following are some of the most common causes of HVAC blower motor failure:

• Excess moisture in the unit
• Buildup of dirt or debris in the unit
• Worn-down bearings
• Issues with the fan or blower motor resistor
• Problems with temperature control
• Electrical issues
• Old age and gradual wear and tear

How To Tell It’s Time for an HVAC Blower Motor Replacement

A blower motor that can no longer function properly and needs replacement will typically show signs that it’s on its last legs. Home and business owners should look for the following indications that it’s time for replacement:

• Insufficient or no airflow coming from the building’s vents
• Strange odors and noises coming from the HVAC system
• An overheating HVAC unit
• Increases in monthly utility bills

If you notice any (or all) of these signs, don’t hesitate to call in the professionals to conduct a thorough inspection. The sooner you do so, the better chance you have of facing a repair rather than a replacement.

Factors That Determine HVAC Blower Motor Replacement Cost

Now comes the essential question: How much does replacing an HVAC blower motor cost? Unfortunately, the answer is not straightforward. Several factors determine HVAC blower motor replacement cost, so it can vary significantly.

Blower Motor Size

Blower motor size is one of the most important factors. The larger the HVAC blower motor, the more expensive it is. Home and business owners should ensure they’re purchasing the correct size to avoid overspending.

We measure blower motor size in terms of horsepower levels. Most residential HVAC systems use one-quarter, one-third, or one-half horsepower blower motors. These typically range from $100 to $1,000.

Expansive homes and commercial buildings, however, may have units that require three-quarter or one-horsepower blower motors. These can cost anywhere from $175 to $2,000.

Blower Motor Type and Speed

Another factor that contributes to price differences is the blower motor type and speed. In terms of upfront cost, single-stage permanent split capacitor (PSC) motors are the cheapest type, while two-stage and variable-speed electronically commutated motors (ECMs) are more expensive. However, PSC motors run less efficiently and have higher operating costs. 

Blower Motor Brand

The cost of replacement will also vary based on the blower motor brand. The cheapest brands, however, may not always make the most efficient or reliable blower motors. It’s vital for home and business owners to do their research about each blower motor brand or consult HVAC professionals for a recommendation before purchasing their replacement.

Warranty Coverage

Warranty coverage can significantly reduce the cost of replacing an HVAC blower motor. The entire HVAC system or the blower motor itself may be under warranty. If that’s the case, the home or business owner would typically only pay for the labor to replace the component and not the price of the blower motor itself.

Labor Costs

Accounting for labor costs is just as important as considering the price of the blower motor. Whether or not the building owner has warranty coverage, they’ll need to pay professional HVAC technicians to remove the existing blower motor and install the replacement part. 

Blower motor replacement typically comes with hourly charges ranging from $75 to $175, depending on the cost of labor in the area. Replacement can take 90 minutes to three hours, depending on the difficulty. On average, the total cost of labor for blower motor replacement ranges from $112.50 to $525.

Why Hire Professionals for HVAC Blower Motor Replacement?

Because the labor costs for HVAC blower motor replacement are significant, home and business owners may consider doing the job themselves. Unfortunately, this is an unwise decision for several reasons.

First, a DIYer may not have the knowledge or experience to diagnose the HVAC system issue. They might end up unnecessarily replacing the blower motor when a less expensive part was creating the problem. They could pay just as much as the cost of labor for numerous replacement parts.

An untrained DIYer may also damage other components of their HVAC system as they attempt to replace the blower motor. This could result in costly repairs or the need for a new unit entirely. Finally, the home or business owner may void their warranty if they don’t enlist professional service.

Schedule a Blower Motor Inspection Today!

Home and business owners who begin lacking comfort and proper airflow within their buildings often wonder: How much does it cost to replace an HVAC blower motor? Because of the many factors in play, the answer varies significantly. Professional HVAC technicians know how to find the most cost-effective and reliable blower motor for each system. To schedule a blower motor inspection, or to learn more about HVAC problems like a broken AC compressor, contact your trusted HVAC experts at Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing. Call us today at 918-276-7151.

If you’re having trouble with your air conditioner and keeping your home cool, contact Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing today for an inspection!

If you feel like your home feels warm and stuffy after turning on the air conditioner, you might ask yourself, “Why is my house still hot with the AC on?” A seemingly faulty AC unit is the last thing anyone wants to deal with when they expect to have relief indoors from Oaklahoma’s high summer temperatures. So, what causes the problem?

As Tulsa’s trusted AC installation company, Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing understands the frustrations that come with an HVAC system with poor performance. Though our HVAC professionals can pinpoint the precise reasons why your specific air conditioner isn’t cooling your property properly, you might be experiencing one of these common issues.  

1. Lack of Shade Around the Property

The answer to the question, “Why is my house still hot with the AC on?” doesn’t always involve the HVAC system. Sometimes the heat coming into a house is too much for the air conditioner to handle. 

For instance, if your residence is in a location without many trees or exterior and interior shading, like window awnings and blinds, sunlight will have an unobstructed line to your windows on the south side of your house. When the sun’s rays hit windows without shade, it can increase the temperatures inside those rooms. Your air conditioner might be working double time to account for the temperature increases during the sunniest times of the day. 

The best way to address this issue is to ensure your property has adequate shading. Planting trees strategically on the south side of your property to shield your windows will help prevent your AC system from overworking, and the shade will keep your home cooler. If planting trees isn’t an option, consider using window blinds, drapes, or tinted films to block some of the sun’s light. 

2. Poor Home Insulation

Another home-based problem that can leave your house feeling hot and stuffy with the air conditioner running is insufficient insulation. Insulation is necessary for blocking indoor and outdoor air transfers regardless of the season. If your home has old insulation, no insulation, or improperly installed insulation, air leaks from your attic and roof could be responsible for the loss of precious chilled air in the summer. 

Consider contacting an insulation specialist to assess your home’s insulation needs. It may be time to remove old insulation from your walls and attic to properly install new materials. With the right insulation, your house will be more comfortable and energy-efficient.

3. Incorrect Air Conditioner Size

A large air conditioner doesn’t always equate to more power and efficiency, nor will a smaller unit produce more savings by consuming less energy. It’s imperative to install an appropriately sized AC because a small system won’t have the power to keep up with your temperature settings on the thermostat. The heat will be too much. 

Most people experience this problem if they DIY an AC installation without taking the system’s size and abilities into account. It’s also possible to have an appropriately-sized AC system that becomes too small for the property if the homeowners build another room or screened porch for the home. 

4. Air Leaks From Ductwork

Central air conditioning units rely on air ducts to transport chilled air throughout the house. Even if your AC is fully functional, you might notice a drop in system performance if the ducts leak chilled air due to gaps or tears in their seams. 

If your home can’t cool off quickly, you might adjust the thermostat, which forces your AC to overwork. Still, if no one locates and repairs the leaks, the problem will remain, and you’ll also have to deal with the risk of premature wear on your HVAC system. 

5. Air Drafts

Walls and attics without sufficient insulation aren’t the only ways your home can leak air. Adequate air sealing around your windows and doors is vital for preventing unwanted air transfers between your house and the outdoors.

Drafty windows and doors could have major gaps or many tiny cracks that allow air to move back and forth. Proper weatherization will prevent this issue and ensure your indoor comfort throughout the year.

6. Blocked Vents

A simple explanation that can answer the, “Why is my house still hot with the AC on?” question is “blocked vents.” Sometimes people close vents under the assumption that they can cool commonly-used spaces more quickly by shutting the vents in mostly unused rooms.

Unfortunately, intentionally or unintentionally blocking air vents can cause the AC’s blower to work excessively to shift the air toward open vents. This creates an inefficiency that increases the pressure within the ductwork, forcing the blower to work slower. The result is a hotter house because it will take longer to cool things down. 

7. Refrigerant Leaks

Refrigerant is a vital component of air conditioners because the chemical facilitates the heat transfer process that removes warmth and moisture from indoor air, making spaces cooler. Refrigerant moves on a closed circuit between the condenser unit and the air handler. However, if the lines develop a leak, you’ll lose refrigerant and the ability to properly conduct a heat transfer. 

Refrigerant leaks are serious problems. Exposure to the chemical can cause several health problems, like:

• Dizziness
• Loss of concentration
• Skin irritation
• Irregular heartbeats

If you suspect a refrigerant leak is responsible for your house staying warm with the air conditioner running, contact an HVAC professional immediately for help.

8. Filthy Air Filter

Air filters are another essential component of an AC system, but many people overlook them. The filters are screens that trap airborne debris as the cooling unit cycles air throughout the house, such as:

• Dust
• Dust mites
• Pollen
• Volatile organic compounds or VOCs
• Pet dander

When you don’t clean or replace the filters regularly, they will clog with debris. The filthy screen will restrict airflow, which will force the AC system to work harder. In some cases, the debris will shed onto the cooling unit’s interior components, like the evaporator coil, and affect their performance.

The ideal schedule for changing AC air filters is once every 90 days, or once every season. Still, people with respiratory illnesses or pets may need to change the filters every 30 days to maintain good indoor air quality. 

9. Dirty or Blocked Condenser Unit

Dirty condenser units are another potential problem. The condenser unit is the AC equipment outside of your house that’s responsible for dispersing indoor heat to the outside air. Proper airflow is essential for the condenser unit’s functionality. 

Ideally, the condenser unit should have at least two feet of clear space on all sides to prevent air blockages. Still, plants, grass, debris, and other materials can block air and dirty the system’s interior components. After clearing space around the equipment, contact an HVAC company to clean the unit. 

Improve Your AC System Today With the Help of Tulsa’s Top HVAC Company

It can be difficult answering, “Why is my house still hot with the AC on?” if you don’t seek a professional HVAC inspection from experienced professionals. At Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, we can ensure your home maintains the ideal temperature in summer to beat Tulsa, OK’s, sweltering heat through our comprehensive HVAC services.

From thorough AC inspections to air conditioner repairs and replacements, our locally-operated, privately-owned company does it all. Our skilled technicians work hard to produce optimal results. Request an appointment with Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing today by calling (918) 262-5245.

If you’re like most homeowners, you probably don’t interact too closely with your HVAC system, and for good reason. The furthest you might go is getting up to change the temperature or other settings through the thermostat. Otherwise, the majority of HVAC servicing will fall to a professional HVAC technician to diagnose and resolve new issues or perform ongoing maintenance to the condenser, air handler, and HVAC registers.

But what are HVAC registers? As a trusted AC repair company in Tulsa, OK, our team at Quality Heating, Cooling, & Plumbing explains everything you need to know about HVAC registers, what they do, and how you can customize them to make your AC vents a charming design feature in your home.

Understanding HVAC Registers and Other Types of Vents

HVAC registers are vents in multiple areas around your house. They’re small yet key parts of air conditioning systems that are easy to overlook since people walk by them all the time. Despite this, they play a pivotal role in how your AC distributes air. They tend to cover holes in the walls, ceilings, or floors.

Registers are essential in helping an HVAC supply and control air flow throughout a building. Although they are usually rectangular, the size isn’t standard, and you can find them in multiple shapes and form factors.

Since registers are a type of vent, it’s worth knowing about the other kinds of vents in your home and how they compare to each other. Your HVAC system likely uses a combination of grilles, registers, and diffusers to achieve peak ventilation.

Grilles

Grilles are the most simple type of vent. They have slits that allow air to flow through the area they cover, with some featuring angled slats called louvers to help direct the flow of air in a certain direction. However, most grilles are static, meaning they don’t move and have limited functionality when it comes to adjusting airflow.

Registers

Registers are just like grilles but with the added functionality of dampers. This additional mechanism allows a register to control the air flowing out of an AC by opening and closing the register. The purpose of this is twofold since the direction and amount of air can change depending on where you set the damper.

Diffusers

Diffusers take the idea of a register further by pushing conditioned air into multiple directions throughout a living space. Like registers, diffusers come with dampers to adjust airflow at the user’s discretion. These are great for creating an even circulation of air within a room, such as a living or dining area.

How Do HVAC Registers Help Your AC?

Although simple in design and concept, registers are instrumental to HVAC units by providing both cooling and heating ventilation to your house. Since AC units produce and condition air through a mechanical ventilation system, it means the air must work its way through the ductwork and flow throughout the house. Your HVAC system continuously accomplishes this process through various types of vents.

Supply Vents

A supply vent allows hot or cool air that the AC produces to exit an air duct and enter a room. When an AC is set to “auto” on the thermostat, it will go through cycles of blowing air throughout the house. You may even be able to hear the air coming through the supply vents. When answering the question “What are HVAC registers?” the answer usually ends up being “a type of supply vent” since registers are a popular design for supply vents, but grilles are also a viable option.

Return Vents

On the flip side of supply vents are the aptly named return vents. These allow HVAC units to pull air in through a large duct and return air to the system to redistribute it as either hot or cool air that ends up passing through supply vents. 

Return vents are larger than supply vents and are common in higher, harder-to-reach areas, such as ceilings or at the top of a hallway wall.

Other Vents

Other, more specialized vents appear throughout many homes, such as:

• Dryer vents in the laundry room, which help remove the heat, moisture, and lint that accumulates during a drying cycle
• Bathroom vents that aid in removing moisture, humidity, and odors from the bathroom
• Kitchen vents located above the stove help get rid of pollutants like carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide while cooking

HVAC Registers Are Highly Customizable

You probably pay little thought to your HVAC registers since they don’t often require much thought or attention beyond adjusting the flow of air into a room. However, customizing registers and other vent types is a great way to add style and functionality to a home.

Because registers don’t connect to the more mechanical components of an AC, it means you can replace or customize them with relative ease. Oftentimes all you need is a ladder, ruler, and screwdriver to get the job done. If your current registers are metal and stick out of the wall or ceiling like a sore thumb, then you can either paint them or purchase new ones to blend in, giving your home a cleaner, more consistent look.

On the other hand, you might want to choose registers that add a bit of class to your home by accenting parts of your wall or ceiling. This will allow you to maintain the benefits of adjustable ventilation while giving your home an updated interior design.

Get Quality AC Service Today

Looking to get the most out of your AC? Quality Heating, Cooling, & Plumbing can help! As a locally owned and operated business, we go the extra mile every time. We provide a host of services, from AC to heating, plumbing, drains, and water heaters. If you have a list of questions to ask an HVAC contractor, such as “what are HVAC registers?” we’re here to answer them!Contact Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing today at (918) 212-0122 to schedule service and return your home to a place of comfort today!