Author: Kevin

How Much Does a New AC Unit Cost?

Written by Kevin on April 25, 2025. Posted in Cooling, HVAC Systems. No Comments on How Much Does a New AC Unit Cost?

Buying a new AC unit is a major investment – but understanding the cost upfront can help you budget, compare options, and avoid surprises. So, how much does a new air conditioning system cost in Boise or Nampa?

The answer depends on several factors, including your home’s size, energy needs, and installation conditions. At Peppy Heating & Cooling, we’re here to walk you through the key price drivers and help you choose a system that fits your home and budget.

What Affects the Cost of AC Installation?

When estimating the cost of a new air conditioner, several important variables come into play:

System Size and Cooling Capacity: Measured in BTUs or tons, the larger the system, the higher the price. Bigger homes require larger, more powerful units.
Energy Efficiency (SEER Rating): Higher SEER ratings mean better efficiency and lower utility bills, but they typically come with a higher upfront cost.
Installation Complexity: If your home has outdated ductwork, limited access, or electrical issues, installation will take longer and cost more.
Brand and Features: Premium brands and models with smart thermostats, variable-speed motors, or noise-reduction features generally cost more than basic units.
Climate Conditions: In hotter regions like Boise and Nampa, more efficient systems are often required to handle extended use – affecting both system selection and price.

Average AC Unit Cost Breakdown

So, what can you expect to pay?

Entry-Level Systems: $5,500 – $7,500

Ideal for smaller homes or budget-conscious buyers, these systems are basic but effective.

Mid-Range Systems: $7,500 – $10,000

These offer better energy efficiency and comfort features, making them a smart long-term investment.

High-End Systems: $10,000 – $16,000+

Advanced home systems with top-tier performance, ideal for larger homes or homeowners looking to maximize comfort and efficiency.

While upfront costs are important, investing in a more efficient unit can help lower your long-term energy bills – a crucial consideration during Idaho’s hottest months.

Ways to Make a New AC More Affordable

Getting a high-quality system doesn’t have to break your budget. Here’s how to make your investment go further:

Compare Quotes: Getting multiple estimates helps you find the best value for the services you need.
Explore Utility Rebates: Energy-efficient units may qualify for rebates through local programs, helping reduce your final cost.
Consider Financing: At Peppy, we offer flexible payment plans so you can spread out the cost of installation – without sacrificing comfort now.

If you’re unsure which unit makes the most sense, our team can walk you through equipment options, financing plans, and available incentives to help you save.

Peppy Heating & Cooling: Your Boise AC Experts

How much does a new AC unit cost? Now you know the factors, price ranges, and savings opportunities that come with upgrading your home’s cooling system.

At Peppy, we’re proud to offer expert AC installation services throughout Boise, Nampa, and surrounding areas. Whether you’re replacing an aging unit or building new, we’ll help you find the right system at the right price – no stress, no pressure.

Call us today at (208) 906-6928 to get a personalized quote and explore the best AC options for your home.

When Is the Best Time To Switch From Heat to AC in Idaho?

Written by Kevin on March 28, 2025. Posted in Cooling, Heating. No Comments on When Is the Best Time To Switch From Heat to AC in Idaho?

Idaho’s seasons can change quickly, making it tricky to decide when to turn off the heat and switch to air conditioning. Switching too early can leave you shivering at night, while waiting too long can mean uncomfortable indoor temperatures and higher energy bills.

At Peppy Heating & Cooling, we are frequently asked our opinion, and while situations vary – let’s break down the best time to switch from heat to AC (and answer these common homeowner concerns!).

When Should You Switch to AC?

Unlike other parts of the country, Idaho doesn’t follow a strict seasonal timeline for switching HVAC systems. Instead of relying on calendar dates, watch for these signs that it’s time to switch to cooling mode:

Daytime highs consistently reach the mid-60s or higher
Nighttime temperatures stay above 50 degrees for at least a week
Indoor humidity levels begin to rise
South-facing rooms feel warmer than the rest of the house
Family members start adjusting fans or cracking windows for relief

If you’re still seeing cold mornings and chilly nights, consider leaving your thermostat on “AUTO” so it can switch between heating and cooling as needed.

“Will running my AC too early increase energy costs?”

No, as long as you use it efficiently. The key is to set your thermostat at the highest comfortable temperature and avoid making drastic temperature swings. A sudden drop from 75 to 65 degrees forces your system to work harder than necessary.

How to Optimize Energy Efficiency During The Transition

Spring and fall offer a great opportunity to cut down on energy consumption without relying too much on heating and cooling.

To save money while staying comfortable, try to:

Use Natural Ventilation – Open windows in the morning and evening to let in cool air instead of running your AC.
Gradually Adjust Your Thermostat – Shift temperatures a few degrees at a time rather than making sudden changes.
Program Your Thermostat – A smart thermostat automatically adapts to spring and fall temperature swings, keeping your home comfortable while minimizing energy waste.
Schedule HVAC Maintenance – Regular system tune-ups prevent unexpected breakdowns and keep your system running efficiently.

“Should I turn my heat back on if we get a cold snap?”

Yes! Spring weather in Idaho can be unpredictable, so don’t hesitate to briefly turn your heat back on if the temperature drops suddenly. The key is to adjust gradually rather than making extreme changes.

Is Your AC Ready for the Season?

Before switching to cooling mode, take these simple steps to make sure your AC is ready:

Replace your air filter. A clean filter improves airflow and keeps your air clean.
Clear debris around your outdoor unit. Leaves and dirt restrict airflow, making your AC work harder.
Check vents and registers. Make sure furniture and curtains aren’t blocking airflow.
Schedule a professional tune-up. An AC inspection prevents breakdowns and keeps energy costs low.

“What’s the best thermostat setting for spring in Idaho?”

A good rule of thumb is:

68-72 degrees when you’re home
~78 degrees when you’re away

This balance keeps your home comfortable without wasting energy.

Peppy Heating & Cooling: Comfort Through Every Season

Switching from heat to AC at the right time ensures energy efficiency, comfort, and HVAC longevity. At Peppy, we help Idaho homeowners prepare their systems for seasonal changes with expert maintenance and guidance.

Call (208) 906-6928 today to schedule a system tune-up and make sure your home is spring-ready!

3 Reasons Your Energy Bill Is High and How Your HVAC System Can Help

Written by Kevin on February 26, 2025. Posted in HVAC Systems. No Comments on 3 Reasons Your Energy Bill Is High and How Your HVAC System Can Help

Have you noticed your energy bills creeping higher, even though you haven’t changed how you heat or cool your home? Rising energy costs can be frustrating, but pinpointing the cause can help you take control of your monthly expenses and improve efficiency.

At Peppy Heating and Cooling, we help homeowners in Boise and beyond optimize their HVAC systems for maximum savings. Here are three key reasons your energy bill may be higher than expected – plus, HVAC solutions to help you SAVE!

1. Seasonal Weather Changes Increase Energy Demand

Extreme temperatures mean your HVAC system has to work harder.

Summer: Your AC runs longer cycles to keep up with intense heat and humidity.
Winter: Your heating system works overtime to combat freezing temperatures.

The result? Higher energy consumption and bigger utility bills.

Even homes in the same neighborhood can have different energy costs due to factors like sun exposure, humidity levels, and home insulation. If your home requires more cooling or dehumidification than the one down the street, your energy bills will reflect that demand.

2. Aging HVAC Systems & Poor Maintenance Reduce Efficiency

Your HVAC system’s age and condition play a huge role in how much energy it uses. Older, inefficient systems struggle to keep up, consuming more power to maintain the same level of comfort.

If you’re skipping regular HVAC maintenance, problems like:

Dirty filters that restrict airflow
Worn-out components that force your system to work harder
Leaky ductwork that allows conditioned air to escape

… could be driving up your energy costs without you realizing it. Keeping up with routine tune-ups helps lower bills and extend the life of your system.

3. Poor Insulation & Air Leaks Waste Energy

Even if your HVAC system is in great shape, your home may still be losing energy due to poor insulation and air leaks.

Insufficient insulation allows heat to escape in winter and heat to seep in during summer.
Cracks around windows, doors, and vents let conditioned air leak out, making your HVAC system work harder than necessary.

The solution? Sealing air leaks and improving insulation helps keep your home comfortable year-round – without overloading your HVAC system.

How Your HVAC System Can Help Lower Energy Costs

Before replacing your system, try these energy-saving tips to improve efficiency:

Install a programmable thermostat to automate temperature settings and avoid unnecessary heating/cooling.
Seal air leaks around windows and doors using weatherstripping and caulk.
Schedule regular HVAC maintenance. Expert attention ensures optimal system performance.
Upgrade insulation. Ensure your attic and walls can offer proper temperature regulation.
Clean or replace HVAC filters monthly. Proper airflow lowers energy consumption.

Bonus Tip: Switching to LED lighting and ENERGY STAR appliances can further reduce your energy bill.

Take Control of Your Energy Costs with Peppy Heating and Cooling

If high energy bills are a concern, Peppy is here to help. Our HVAC tune-ups, system evaluations, and energy-efficient upgrades ensure your home stays comfortable without wasting energy.

Call us at (208) 906-6928 to schedule a consultation and start saving today!

DIY Furnace Repairs: What You Can Do Versus When To Call a Technician

Written by Kevin on January 24, 2025. Posted in Heating. No Comments on DIY Furnace Repairs: What You Can Do Versus When To Call a Technician

When your furnace stops working during cold winters, it’s tempting to try and fix the issue yourself to save money. While some maintenance tasks are perfectly safe and effective to handle on your own, more complex repairs should always be left to the professionals. Attempting advanced DIY furnace repairs can lead to dangerous situations, voided warranties – or even a complete system failure.

In this guide, Peppy Heating & Cooling outlines tasks homeowners can safely tackle, common troubleshooting tips, and clear indicators that it’s time to call an HVAC expert.

Safe DIY Furnace Tasks You Can Handle at Home

Most DIY furnace repairs revolve around basic maintenance tasks that can improve efficiency and reduce the risk of costly breakdowns. These steps can often resolve minor issues and extend the lifespan of your heating system.

1. Replace the Air Filter

Changing the air filter is the easiest and most impactful task you can do. A clogged filter restricts airflow, forcing your furnace to work harder and increasing your energy bills. Aim to replace the filter every 1-3 months, depending on usage and filter type.

2. Clean Furnace Components

Dust and debris can collect in and around your furnace, impacting performance. Use a vacuum with attachments to clean vents, registers, and around the furnace housing. For extra cleaning, gently wipe accessible components with a soft cloth or brush.

3. Inspect the Thermostat

Ensure your thermostat is set to “eat” mode and that the temperature setting is above room temperature. Replace the batteries if needed and check for dust buildup that could interfere with its operation.

4. Check the Power Source

Verify the furnace is receiving power. Reset tripped circuit breakers and ensure the power switch near the unit is in the “on” position. For gas furnaces, check that the gas valve is open and the pilot light is lit.

Tools Every Homeowner Needs for Furnace Maintenance

Stock your toolkit with these essentials for safe and effective furnace maintenance:

A digital thermometer for checking air temperature.
A screwdriver set for accessing panels and components.
A vacuum with attachments to clean vents, registers, and surrounding areas.
Replacement air filters
A wire brush for cleaning burners.
A flashlight to inspect hard-to-see areas.
Safety gloves and a dust mask to protect yourself.

When To Call an HVAC Professional

While basic maintenance and troubleshooting can solve some problems, certain situations require professional expertise to avoid injury, further damage, or safety risks.

Contact a licensed HVAC technician if you encounter any of the following:

Gas odors or carbon monoxide alerts. These are serious hazards that require immediate professional attention.
Electrical issues or burning smells, AKA signs of wiring problems or overheating components.
Strange noises, like grinding, squealing, or banging, that can indicate mechanical failures.
Frequent cycling. If the furnace is turning on and off rapidly, it could mean a failing thermostat, clogged filter, or other issues.
Yellow or flickering pilot light may point to ventilation or gas issues.
No heat despite troubleshooting. If basic steps don’t resolve the issues, it’s time to call a technician.
Unusually high energy bills. This could signal that your furnace is working harder than necessary due to inefficiencies.

Furnace Maintenance Tips to Prevent Repairs

Regular maintenance is key to avoiding unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs. Be sure that you’re scheduling your annual inspections before the major seasons to ensure your system is in peak condition.

Additionally, you’ll want to:

Keep vents and registers clear of obstructions.
Seal air leaks in ductwork to improve efficiency.
Monitor your system for unusual changes in performance.

Stay Warm with Peppy Heating & Cooling

Taking care of basic furnace maintenance can save you money and keep your home warm, but some tasks are best left to the experts.

At Peppy, we provide expert furnace repair and maintenance services throughout Boise, ID and the surrounding areas. From quick fixes to comprehensive inspections, our certified technicians are here to help.

Call us today at (208) 906-6928 to schedule your furnace repair or maintenance service. Let us keep you home comfortable no matter the weather!

How To Keep Your Home Warm WITHOUT Breaking the Bank

Written by Kevin on December 30, 2024. Posted in Heating. No Comments on How To Keep Your Home Warm WITHOUT Breaking the Bank

Does your home feel perpetually chilly during winter? If you’re searching for affordable ways to keep your home warm without investing in a costly zoned heating system, you’re in the right place.

Here are practical tips to help keep your home cozy without overspending.

1. Upgrade to Smart Thermostats

If you’re still relying on standard thermostats, you’re missing out BIG time. Modern smart thermostats let you control your home’s temperature from your phone or another connected device – wherever you are.

Set the temperature lower when you’re away and schedule it to warm up before you return.
Keep your thermostat at 72 degrees when you’re home and between 62 and 68 degrees when you’re out to lower heating costs.

2. Seal Drafty Windows and Doors

Did you know that houses lose a significant amount of energy through their doors and windows? To fix them:

Install weatherstripping around the edges of windows and doors to block cold air.
Use thick, thermal curtains to add an extra layer of insulation.

A quick test: Move your hand around window and door frames to feel for drafts. If you notice cold air, sealing those gaps can make a big difference!

3. Insulate Your Home Properly

Well-insulated attics, walls, and floors help homes retain heat better, keeping you warm without overworking your heating system. While installation can be pricey, depending on the type you choose, this is one upgrade that’s always worth the money!

For colder climates, experts recommend insulation with an R-value of 49 or higher. Fiberglass insulation with an R-value of 60 is a great option for maximum efficiency.

4. Use Space Heaters Wisely

If you mostly spend most of your time in just a few rooms, consider using space heaters instead of heating your entire home.

Place space heaters in frequently used rooms to stay comfortable while reducing the load on your central heating system.
Always follow manufacturer instructions and never leave a space heater unattended.

5. Schedule Regular HVAC Maintenance

If you’ve ever had to call for furnace repairs, you know just how expensive it can be to get your heating system working again. The best way to prevent those costly repairs is to schedule HVAC maintenance once a year – preferably before you need to use your system.

HVAC maintenance is such a big money saver because you’ll find little problems before they necessitate wallet-draining repairs, or even a full system replacement.

Stay Toasty with Peppy Heating & Cooling

Want more on keeping your home warm without breaking the bank? The experts at Peppy are here to help! From maintenance to repairs, we’ve got everything you need to stay comfortable this winter.

Call us at (208) 906-6928 to schedule a service today and let us help you keep your home toasty (minus the hefty price tag)!

Supporting the Idaho Foodbank This Holiday Season

Written by Kevin on November 27, 2024. Posted in Uncategorized. No Comments on Supporting the Idaho Foodbank This Holiday Season

For many, the holiday season is filled with joy, gift-giving, and time spent with loved ones. However, for some members of our community, this time of year brings challenges – especially when it comes to food insecurity.

Because meals play such an important role in holiday traditions, Peppy Heating & Cooling is proud to support the Idaho Foodbank in its mission to bring hope and nourishment to those in need.

Learn about the Idaho Foodbank, its holiday initiatives, and how you can join us in giving back this season!

About the Idaho Foodbank and Its Holiday Mission

Founded in 1984, the Idaho Foodbank is a non-profit organization and the state’s primary distributor of free food to Idahoans in need. With distribution centers in Pocatello, Meridian, and Lewiston, this organization works tirelessly to ensure no one in the community goes hungry.

Over the last fiscal year, the Idaho Foodbank provided nearly 24 million meals throughout its network of nearly 450 community partners, including:

Churches
Food pantries
Schools
Senior centers
Shelters
Feeding sites

As a donor-supported organization, the Idaho Foodbank relies on the generosity of individuals, families, and businesses to fulfill its mission of fighting hunger.

Hope for the Holidays: Idaho Foodbank’s Seasonal Food Drive

Every November, the Idaho Foodbank launches its Hope for the Holidays campaign, which runs through December. This year, their goal is to distribute an incredible 3.7 million meals to Idahoans in need!

So, how can you support the Idaho Foodbank in reaching its goal?

1. Donate Time

Volunteering is a great way to give back, whether individually, as a family, or as part of a corporate group. The foodbank welcomes volunteers as young as eight years old to help at their facilities in Meridian, Pocatello, or Lewiston. Tasks range from sorting and packaging food to helping with special holiday events.

2. Donate Money

Monetary donations allow the foodbank to provide healthy, nutritious meals year-round. Through their Nourish 365 program, you can set up monthly donations to ensure a consistent source of food for those in need. One-time donations are also acceptable; even just $5 can provide up to 15 meals!

3. Donate Supplies

Holiday food donations are another meaningful way to help. Non-perishable items can be dropped off at any Idaho Foodbank location during business hours. Find your nearest location here.

Peppy Heating & Cooling’s Day of Giving Back

This month, Peppy took action to support the Idaho Foodbank by spending a couple of hours volunteering at their facility. Our team came together to sort potatoes and pears, contributing to the incredible work the Foodbank does to prepare and distribute meals for those in need.

We challenge our community to join us in giving back this holiday season. Whether you’re able to donate your time, make a monetary donation, or contribute food, every bit of support helps Idaho families enjoy a brighter holiday.

To learn more about how to get involved, visit the Idaho Foodbank website, or click here to donate today.

Don’t forget about your heating system during holiday festivities! Peppy Heating & Cooling offers comprehensive heating services, including repairs, replacements, and maintenance. Book an appointment with our certified and licensed crew today — call (208) 906-6928 to learn more.

Maintenance Tips for Preparing Your HVAC System for Fall

Written by Kevin on October 31, 2024. Posted in HVAC Systems. No Comments on Maintenance Tips for Preparing Your HVAC System for Fall

With summer coming to an end, it’s time to start thinking about your heating needs for the winter. Unfortunately, many homeowners don’t consider their furnaces until the temperatures change – which is problematic if something is wrong with your system.

Taking care of your HVAC maintenance in the fall is beneficial for several reasons, which you can learn below along with helpful tips.

Why You Need HVAC Maintenance Before Fall

Routine HVAC maintenance is the best way to keep air conditioners and furnaces in great condition.

When you service your heating system in the fall, you ensure your household will have optimal comfort all winter. Doing various maintenance steps in the fall gives you plenty of time to identify possible problems with your equipment and get the right repairs, recalibrations, or replacements to resolve them. Your system will perform better, last longer, and have fewer risks of costly breakdowns in the middle of winter.

Signs You Need Maintenance

A couple of signs you need professional service include:

High energy bills
Uneven heating and cooling
Unusual noises or smells

What You Can Do To Prepare Your Heating System for Cooler Weather

While working with a professional is always best, there are a couple of HVAC maintenance tasks you can handle on your own.

Replace the Air Filter

One of the best things you can do for your HVAC system is to replace its air filter. Air filter replacement is necessary at least once every 90 days because the screens can clog due to dust, dirt, allergens, and other airborne particles. It’s tougher for air to pass through a dirty filter, which can result in the furnace overworking itself and developing premature wear.

Check the Thermostat Settings

Ensure your thermostat is ready for fall. Turn the heat on before temperatures outside drop to test the thermostat and heating system’s functionality. If the thermostat and furnace work properly, consider turning the thermostat down at night or when nobody is home to conserve energy.

Invest in Air Duct Cleaning and Sealing

It’s good to clean air ducts and vents since they can accumulate debris. Sealing ducts with holes or tears is also necessary to prevent air leakage. The energy loss can increase your utility bills and affect your comfort.

Schedule a Professional Furnace Checkup

Though you can certainly take HVAC maintenance steps in the fall to prepare your heating system for the winter, sometimes professional help is best. Furnace tune-ups include thorough system inspections, minor repairs, cleaning, parts replacements, and other services that help optimize the equipment’s performance.

Call Peppy Heating & Cooling Today To Prepare Your Furnace for Winter

No matter your needs, get quality HVAC maintenance from Peppy Heating & Cooling – a top HVAC company serving Nampa and Boise, ID.

Our certified technicians can provide personalized heating and cooling solutions with outstanding customer service. Call (208) 906-6928 today to request services.

Boise’s Best Hidden Gems for Fall Adventures

Written by Kevin on September 30, 2024. Posted in Uncategorized. No Comments on Boise’s Best Hidden Gems for Fall Adventures

Maybe it’s the crisp evenings or the apple cider, but something about fall makes you want to get out of the house and go have some fun! Whether you love the pumpkins and cocoa or scary Halloween costumes, Boise, ID has lots to do with friends and family.

Peppy Heating and Cooling is a Boise-born company that loves Bronco football games as much as you do! Here are our recommendations for Boise fall adventures.

An Evening on Simplot Hill

Pack a blanket and sandwiches and enjoy a sunset on a chilly fall evening. Simplot Hill is a popular place to go sledding in the winter, but it’s perfect for watching sunsets and relaxing in the fall!

The Boise Bike Bar

If you want something unique to do, check out The Boise Bike Bar.

This 14-seater bike-vehicle hybrid will give you a fun evening for you and your guests to pedal around the city, sip beverages, and jam to music. All the pedaling is sure to keep you warm on a chilly fall evening.

The Haunted World

The Haunted World in Caldwell, ID is a haunted attraction well worth the half-hour drive. This massive haunted house is partially indoors and partially outdoors, with terrifying frights every step of the way.

All ages are welcome, but parents should be mindful of what their kids can handle.

Lowe Family Farmstead

The Lowe Family Farmstead offers pumpkin patches and corn mazes that the entire family will enjoy. The family grows a variety of pumpkins you can pick and purchase, and the corn maze features a new design each year.

Idaho Botanical Garden Fall Harvest Days

The Idaho Botanical Garden is hosting Fall Harvest Days with several activities to attend. The Scarecrow Stroll features dressed-up scarecrows, there’s a market to support local artists, and there’s a plant sale you won’t want to miss.

Harvest Days are every Saturday through the month of October, so keep your eyes on the calendar for the latest event.

Idaho Renaissance Faire

If you dream of a land where you can dress up in ye olde attire, visit the Idaho Renaissance Faire with friends or family. Dress up in Renaissance-style clothing and enjoy shows and vendors that will take you back in history.

The Renaissance Faire is a fundraising event from a non-profit organization that supports local schools, so you can feel good while you have some fun.

Peppy Heating and Cooling in Boise, ID

While you’re galavanting through fairs and fields during Boise fall adventures, don’t forget to schedule an annual maintenance check-up for your furnace!

Peppy Heating and Cooling offers furnace maintenance and repairs for Boise, ID and the surrounding areas. A quick tune-up will allow your furnace to keep working while you enjoy all the Treasure Valley activities you can find in the area.

You can reach us at (208) 906-6928 any time you need HVAC services.

(Don’t forget to ask about our Comfort Club – you’ll save money on repairs and receive priority scheduling on future services!)

Air Vent 101: Troubleshooting Tips for Better AC Performance

Written by Kevin on August 21, 2024. Posted in HVAC Systems. No Comments on Air Vent 101: Troubleshooting Tips for Better AC Performance

Do you find yourself cranking up the air conditioning but your home barely gets cooler? Common airflow issues are likely to blame.

Find out how you can troubleshoot basic air vent problems to improve your HVAC performance and make your home more energy efficient.

Check for Blocked Vents

You don’t have to overthink the causes of weak airflow. Sometimes, the problem is as simple as having closed or blocked vents. Before you call an HVAC technician to get to the bottom of your airflow issues, check all of the vents in your home and make sure they’re open.

If the vents are open but certain rooms feel warmer than others, there could be furniture or large objects blocking the airflow. Create a clear path from the vent so cool air can circulate in every room.

Replace Your Air Filter

If you want to experience instant airflow improvement, swap out your HVAC filter. Dirt and allergens clog these filters and gradually restrict the amount of cool air that can pass through your air vents. Your air conditioner must work harder as a result which will cause your energy bills to skyrocket.

Experts recommend changing your filter every three months, though you might need to replace yours more frequently depending on how quickly allergens accumulate. The following factors influence how quickly HVAC filters become dirty:

Number of people in a household
If there are pets inside the house
Whether anyone smokes inside the house

As soon as you experience the signs of an airflow blockage, check your filter and change it if necessary.

Listen for Abnormal HVAC Noises

Your air conditioner will likely produce a humming noise while it runs. If limited cool air comes through your air vents and you hear strange noises coming from your unit, it’s time to call a professional technician. Your system will require repairs if you suddenly hear rattling or grinding noises when it operates.

Remove Debris

The air filter isn’t the only part of your HVAC system that can get dirty. Your air conditioner’s condenser coils can turn grimy and make it harder to produce cool air. In addition, dust can build up along your vents and reduce airflow.

Coil and air vent cleaning helps your cooling system run more efficiently and saves you money in the long run.

Add Insulation

You’ll waste money and energy each year if cracks or gaps exist around your windows and doors. Drafts in these areas will let heat and cool air escape, therefore forcing your HVAC system to work harder to make your home a desired temperature. Upon noticing drafty spots, seal your home and add insulation so your heating and cooling efforts become more cost-effective.

Boost Your HVAC Performance With Our Help – Contact Peppy Heating and Cooling Today

Finding the source of airflow issues can be as simple as opening your air vent or changing your filter. For more complex issues impacting your air conditioner, reach out to Peppy Heating and Cooling and we’ll perform top-notch repairs.

Call (208) 906-6928 to request immediate service and learn more.

How To Troubleshoot and Fix a Clogged AC Condensate Drain

Written by Kevin on July 24, 2024. Posted in Uncategorized. No Comments on How To Troubleshoot and Fix a Clogged AC Condensate Drain

Air conditioning units produce condensation as they cool the air, which is expelled through the ac condensate drain line into your home’s drainage system. If this line gets clogged, it can cause issues like water pooling around your indoor unit, musty odors, and mold growth.

Do you suspect a clogged drain line? Before calling an HVAC technician, try fixing the problem yourself! Here’s how to troubleshoot and clear a clogged AC condensate drain.

Step 1: Turn Off Your Air Conditioning Unit

The first step in the troubleshooting process is to TURN OFF your air conditioning unit. You want to avoid any accidental shocks or damage to your air conditioning unit as you unclog the AC line.

Step 2: Find the Drain Line

You can’t miss the drain line – it’s a PVC pipe connected to the bottom of the indoor unit, running from the air handler to the outside of your home.

Once you find the line, inspect it for any signs of damage or blockage. Sometimes, the water pooling around the base of the air handler may be due to a crack in the line.

If you can’t find any visible damage, then the line is most likely clogged.

Step 3: Clear the Drain Line

There are a few ways to do so.

The most common approach is to use a vacuum cleaner. Connect the vacuum to the end of the drain and run it for a few minutes to suck out any blockage inside. If this doesn’t work, you can use a plumbing snake to attempt to break up any clogs in there.

If you don’t have a plumbing snake in your garage, don’t worry. A stiff wire brush tiny enough to enter the drain line can dislodge minor clogs — as long as it’s long enough to reach the clog’s location in the line.

Step 4: Flush the Drain Line

After you’ve successfully cleared the clog, flush the drain line using a solution of vinegar or a store-bought drain line cleaner to clear out any remaining debris and prevent future clogs.

Get a Professional Clogged Drain Fix From Your Local HVAC Experts in Boise, ID

Do you need help dealing with your drain line blockage?

Call Peppy Heating and Cooling today at (208) 906-6928 to discuss blocked drain solutions and other AC maintenance tips. If you’ve got a clogged drain line, we’ll be there ASAP to help!

FAQs

What is an AC condensate drain line, and why is it important?

The AC condensate drain line is a PVC pipe that removes condensation produced by your air conditioning unit. It plays a vital role in directing water away from your home, preventing issues like water damage, mold growth, and musty odors.

What are the signs of a clogged AC drain line?

Common signs of a clogged drain line include water pooling around the indoor unit, musty odors, and visible mold growth near the air handler.

Can I fix a clogged AC drain line myself?

Yes, you can try to clear a clogged AC drain line yourself by turning off the unit, inspecting the drain line for damage, using a vacuum cleaner or plumbing snake to remove clogs, and flushing the line with a cleaning solution. If the problem persists, call an HVAC technician.

What tools can I use to clear a clogged drain line?

You can use a vacuum cleaner, a plumbing snake, or a stiff wire brush small enough to fit into the line to dislodge the clog. Additionally, flushing the line with vinegar or a drain cleaner can help prevent future clogs.

Why should I turn off my air conditioning unit before unclogging the drain line?

Turning off the AC unit prevents accidental electric shocks and ensures you won’t damage the system while working on the drain line.