The warmer weather is setting in. Lots of people are likely jumping for joy, but others are probably thinking about how it can impact the money in their piggy bank. Keeping your Marin, Sonoma, or Napa county home cool during the spring and summer, can really put a dent in your pocketbook. We are going to review some tips for how to keep cooling costs down this spring and summer while not impacting your home and family’s comfort.

How to Keep Cooling Costs Down this Spring and Summer

Let’s be honest, when it comes to cooling your home, one of the most undesired parts about it, is the cost. There are things you can do to try and elevate some of the expense and most of those things are free or cost very little. What are those things? Keep reading to find out.

• Keep your Air Filters Clean: Dirty AC filters block airflow and make units work harder to cool your home, in turn, costing you money. Replacing a dirty, clogged filter with a clean one, can lower your air conditioner's energy consumption by 5% to 15% (Energy.gov). Not to mention, regularly replacing your home’s air filters can prolong the life of your HVAC system and make the air you are breathing cleaner, saving you even more in the long run.
• Set your Thermostat Effectively: Having the right and a functional thermostat, can save you around 10% a year on heating and cooling costs, and if you program your thermostat to stay within the ideal temperature range, it can save you even more. The key to finding the right temperature is being comfortable, not chilled. Setting your AC as high as is comfortably possible and using a programmable thermostat to increase temperature when you’re out, or asleep, could easily decrease your summer cooling bill by 10% or more.
• Utilize Fans and Ventilation Systems: As we recently reviewed, using your home’s ceiling fans with your HVAC system can save you money. If you are looking to keep cooling costs down this spring and summer, turning on your fans can help. If you use air conditioning, a ceiling fan will allow you to raise the thermostat setting by about 3-5°F with no reduction in comfort. On average, for every degree you can move the air conditioner thermostat up, you reduce the duration of “on” cycles of the air conditioner compressor by 10%, cutting energy consumption, prolonging the life of your air conditioner, and increasing comfort in your home. When you take a shower or bath, use the bathroom vent to remove heat and humidity from your home, this can also save money on trying to cool down the space.
• Avoid Allowing Heat into Your Home: When it is warm outside, do whatever you can do to try and prevent that heat from coming inside your home. Close curtains and blinds to block out the rays during the day. Keeping sun out of your home, means you are reducing the heat that enters. Don’t run heat producing appliances during hot peaks. Things like using a stove or oven, doing laundry, or running the dishwasher can be saved until nighttime, or when the temperatures are a little cooler. Seal any cracks around windows or doors to prevent warm air from leaking into your home.

When it comes to keeping cooling costs down this spring and summer, there are many things you can do without really impacting the comfort level of your home. While we have reviewed a few tips above, for more, you can check out Energy.gov’s Energy Saver 101 infographic, covering everything you need to know about home cooling.

In Marin, Sonoma, and Napa counties, Bragg Cooling, Heating & Plumbing is here for all of your Bay Area cooling needs. Whether you are looking for new AC installation, repair, or a tune-up, we have got you covered. Contact us today.

Are you looking out your window to embrace the spring views, while still trying to stay cool in your North Bay Area home? It may look great outdoors, but if your air conditioning isn’t working inside, it can be miserable. While the May weather in Marin, Sonoma, and Napa counties isn’t too hot just yet, the heat will be here before we know it, and one of the most important things is ensuring that your air conditioning is ready to take on the task of keeping you and your family comfortable. We are going to review some of the most common AC problems for spring and summer, so you can proactively keep your eyes peeled that a problem may be looming.

The Most Common AC Problems for Spring and Summer

Air conditioning, in this day and age, isn’t just a convenience, it has shifted to more of a “must have”. When your home’s AC isn’t working or isn’t up to par, it can create an uncomfortable situation and make your home less enjoyable. By knowing and watching for signs of an issue, you can try to stop a problem before it becomes much larger.

Below we take a look at some of the most common AC problems for spring and summer that we see many of our customers face.

Your AC is running, but there’s no cool air coming out. If you hear your AC running, but don’t feel any air, or warm air is coming out, there is likely an issue. There are multiple reasons why this may be occurring, and some are easier than others to identify and fix. Some of the main causes of this issue include: a dirty air filter, an air duct obstruction, the condenser or belts have an issue, refrigerant is low, or something else.

Your system is making loud and unusual noises when it turns on and off. Your AC should not be making loud noises and should be no louder than a hum. New sounds indicate an issue. If you notice a hissing, clicking, thumping or rattling, screeching, or buzzing, that is not normal. The new noises could indicate that there is a refrigerant leak, blower or motor issue, the condenser fan motor has a problem, there are loose parts, you have faulty electrical, or more. For any of these problems, you’ll want to contact a HVAC professional as soon as possible.

The system is short cycling (constantly turning on and off). One of the most coming AC problems we receive calls about is when a system is short cycling. This means that instead of completing a full cooling cycle, the AC starts up over and over. This is a serious issue that can damage the compressor. This problem may be caused by something as simple as clogged air filters or thermostat issues, or it could be a much larger concern.

There is liquid or it looks like something is leaking around your AC unit. It’s usually rather simple to spot when you have liquid somewhere in your home where it shouldn’t be; however, an AC refrigerant leak may appear within the unit, so it’s not as easy to detect. If you notice colored stains or liquid near your air conditioner unit, you likely have a problem. It is okay to see some condensation on the outside of the unit, but there should never be excessive moisture or colored stains. These types of leaks can be caused by multiple reasons, and usually always require the help of a professional to resolve the problem.

Your AC will not turn on at all. Talk about a problem! One of the most common AC problems for spring and summer is when your air conditioner just will not turn on at all. The first step to diagnosing this issue is checking your thermostat. Ensure it has power, is set to the right setting, and that the temperature is low enough for it to kick on. If all is well there, check your circuit breaker and power source to ensure it hasn’t tripped and that the unit has power. If that is not the issue, you may have loose wiring or another issue and should call in a North Bay Area cooling expert for help.

There are new unpleasant odors coming from your system. If you find yourself plugging your nose when your AC is on, there is a problem. Whether it’s a burning or musty smell, something isn’t right. Electrical and smoky odors may mean that the motor has wiring issues. If your air filters are clogged, it can cause the system to overheat, leading to burning smells. Mildew smells are related to improper drainage. If you detect a burning smell, turn the AC off right away. Check the air filters. If they look dirty, replace them.

The above are some of the most common AC problems you may face this spring and summer; however, you could have other issues with your air conditioning as well. If you are having trouble with your air conditioner, don’t hesitate to contact Bragg Cooling, Heating & Plumbing, for professional cooling troubleshooting. We will take the time to explain what’s causing your cooling problem and discuss your options for repair.

At Bragg Cooling, Heating & Plumbing we offer annual HVAC service agreements that include comprehensive AC tune ups every spring. This all-inclusive service covers coil cleaning, refrigerant inspections, and more. We are here for you and all of your Marin, Sonoma, and Napa county AC needs.

April 6, 2023

April is a great time in Marin, Sonoma, and Napa counties. The flowers are blooming, sun is shining, and the weather is ever changing. At some point in the day you may be using your air conditioning for a relief from the heat and then at another point in the day, you may turn to your heater to stay warm. The multiple temperature range, even throughout just one day, can really put a strain on your HVAC system. There are some things you can do to try and reduce the stress your HVAC system is incurring and increase your home’s comfort levels, one of which is embracing ceiling fans. That leads us to the question, “Should you use your home’s ceiling fan and HVAC at the same time”?

What are Ceiling Fans?

Most people are familiar with ceiling fans and very likely have one or more in their home; however, for those who aren’t, we are going to provide a brief review before discussing if you should use your home’s ceiling fans and HVAC at the same time.

A ceiling fan is a mechanical fan mounted on the ceiling of a room or space, usually electrically powered, that uses hub-mounted rotating blades to circulate air. Ceiling fans come in all different shapes and sizes and some include lighting fixtures.

Ceiling fans have been around for over 100 years, since the early 20th century. Philip Diehl, a contemporary of Thomas Edison, is credited with being the inventor of the electrically powered ceiling fan in 1882. They were originally invented for commercial use to cool factories and hotels, and were added into homes in the 1920s. Now, research shows that more than 75% of all homes in the U.S. have ceiling fans.

Should You Use Your Home’s Ceiling Fans and HVAC at the Same Time?

If you are looking to save money on cooling or heating your Bay Area home, could using a ceiling fan help? Below we review how a ceiling fan can not only help to keep your home at ideal temperature and comfort levels, but it can also lower your energy expenses if used in conjunction with your home’s HVAC.

Using a Ceiling Fan with Air Conditioning

Homeowners can find value in a ceiling fan by using it in conjunction with their air conditioning to keep their home cool. When the air conditioner is running, ceiling fans circulate cooled air and make people feel even cooler. A ceiling fan works similar to wind chill on a cold day, as the wind makes the air feel colder than the reading on the thermostat. A thermostat in a room with a ceiling fan running may display a specific temperature, but to the occupants, the room may feel up to 5 degrees cooler due to what is called the fan chill factor.

If you use air conditioning, a ceiling fan will allow you to raise the thermostat setting about 3-5°F with no reduction in comfort. This allows you to increase the temperature of your air conditioner's thermostat several degrees without causing a decrease in comfort. On average, for every degree you can move the air conditioner thermostat up, you reduce the duration of “on” cycles of the air conditioner compressor by 10%, cutting energy consumption and prolonging the life of your air conditioner, and increasing comfort in your home.

Using a Ceiling Fan with Heat

Most people don’t think about using a ceiling fan when they are trying to stay warm, but could using your ceiling fan and HVAC at the same time, when you are trying to heat up your home, help? The answer is, “yes”. Using a ceiling fan to provide extra warmth in your home can reduce the strain on your HVAC system and save you money on heating costs.

Normally, ceiling fans rotate counterclockwise, pushing air down and producing a slight wind chill effect, as we reviewed above. When you are looking to use your ceiling fan and your heater at the same time, you can switch your ceiling fan’s blade rotation to clockwise, producing an updraft and moving the warm air that collects near your ceiling down into the rest of the room. Hot air rises, so reversing and utilizing your ceiling fans can push the warmth to you.

Your Home’s Comfort is the Top Priority

Should you use your home’s ceiling fan and HVAC at the same time? The truth is, it really can’t hurt and in fact can save you money and prolong the life of your HVAC system. Most people aren’t going to want to turn their blades around, to either heat or cool their home, daily; however, once the weather becomes a little more stable, you should utilize your ceiling fan for whatever season we are in.

At Bragg Cooling, Heating & Plumbing your Marin, Sonoma, and Napa county home’s comfort is our number one priority. We are your heating and cooling experts. When it comes to your comfort, you deserve the best solutions at the best value. All of our technicians and installers are Bragg employees dedicated to providing you with personalized solutions that meet your goals and budget. If you need HVAC repair, replacement, maintenance, or something else, we are here for you.

Contact us today.

March 21, 2023

If you have to plug your noise when your air conditioning is on, or find yourself trying to sniff out where that new odor is coming from, there may be something wrong with your home’s AC. Different smells may mean different things. If you are wondering, “Why does my AC stink?”, we review some of the most common reasons below.

Why Does my AC Stink?

If your AC is making your home smell funky, chances are, there is a reason, because your AC should generally not produce any noticeable smells. We review some of the odors you may be sniffing out, and reasons why you may be asking yourself, “Why does my AC stink”?

• Musty or Moldy: If your AC smells musty or like mildew, moisture within your unit is probably the cause of the stench. If you smell a moldy odor, chances are that mildew or fungus has begun to grow in or near your air conditioner. This can come from various sources, so calling an AC professional is your best bet to resolve the issue. Exposure to damp and moldy environments can cause a variety of health effects, or none at all, depending on the person, and the amount of mold in the environment. You won’t want to leave the smell unattended for too long, as it is not only less than enjoyable, it could be impacting your home’s indoor air quality.
• Exhaust Fumes: If your AC smells like an exhaust pipe, then you could have a refrigerant leak. These leaks can not only be dangerous to your health, but they can also shorten your HVAC system's lifespan. Air conditioners run on electricity, not fossil fuels, so an exhaust smell is a telltale sign that the fluids inside the motor or other components are leaking.
• Rotten Eggs: If you are asking “Why does my AC stink?” and it’s because it smells like rotten eggs, you are likely looking for a solution to resolve the bad stench as soon as possible. This odor can be caused by a number of things, including a decaying animal within your ducts or a gas leak. If you smell this unpleasant odor, it’s best to leave the investigating and troubleshooting to the professionals. Open your windows and call a Marin, Sonoma, and Napa County HVAC expert right away.
• Burning or Smoky: When your AC is on, does it smell like something is burning? If so, chances are that something is. A smoky or burning aroma coming from your air conditioner can be caused by dust burning off (this should go away after a while and is nothing to worry about), having a clogged air filter, a broken capacitor, your motor overheating, electrical components burning, or more. If the burning odor doesn’t go away after a while, turn off your HVAC system and call a professional.

 

Any time that you have to ask yourself, “Why does my AC stink?”, you should be alert and pay attention to what you are smelling. Sometimes what you are sniffing out can be easily explained and resolved, other times, the odors are an indication to much larger problems within your HVAC system.

Bragg Cooling, Heating & Plumbing is here for all of your Marin, Sonoma, and Napa County HVAC needs. When it comes to your comfort, you deserve the best solutions at the best value. All of our technicians and installers are Bragg employees dedicated to providing you with personalized solutions that meet your goals and budget.

HVAC problems can happen at any time and often require immediate attention. We’re available to provide fast same-day service throughout Marin, Sonoma, and Napa Counties at no extra charge. Contact us today.

 

March 7, 2023

Flowers are starting to bloom, the days are longer, and warmer weather is setting in. That can only mean one thing, spring is in the air. Spring officially begins later this month and if you, like most of us, can’t wait for more hours of sunshine, you are likely ready to get everything prepared for the season ahead so you can enjoy it. Warmer weather signals a time to turn off the heater and turn on the air conditioning. Is your AC ready for the hotter months ahead? Our spring HVAC tips can help you ensure that it is. Check them out below.

Spring HVAC Tips

While our California winters may not be as brutal as they are in other parts of the country, the colder weather can still cause issues for your HVAC system, especially when you are officially ready to switch it over to air conditioning. Much like you should prepare your furnace for the fall and winter, you should do the same with your air conditioning for spring and summer.

1. Inspect the outside portion of your HVAC system. If your HVAC system has a condenser that is outdoors, now is the time to remove any covering you may have on it and check around it for debris and other items that may have accumulated in or near it over the colder months. Turning on the air conditioning portion of your unit and forgetting to uncover it, or having obstructions in it, can severely damage your HVAC system.
2. Check and change your air filters. Regularly changing your home’s air filter is significant for your home and your family’s health. The change of season can serve as a great reminder that it is time to replace your air filter. Air filters do simply what the name implies, they filter your air. Air filters keep dust and pollen out and are also tasked with keeping larger particles and materials out of your HVAC system, in turn, saving your system from mutilation. Dirty, unchanged filters are a leading cause of issues with Marin, Sonoma, and Napa County HVAC systems.
3. Test your cooling system. While you may not need AC just yet, one of the best Spring HVAC tips we can provide is for you to check your air conditioning before it is needed. This will allow you to identify any issues proactively, so they can be fixed before you are looking for an escape from the heat.
4. Examine your thermostat. If you have your thermostat turned only to heat, the spring is a great time to change the setting to automatic. The spring is also a good time to set and program your thermostat to ideal temperatures for the warmer months ahead. Use this time to determine if your thermostat is in need of replacement, and do so if needed.
5. Schedule an AC tune-up. An annual AC tune-up will help keep your system at optimal performance. Doing this in the spring will ensure that your air conditioner is replaced, repaired, or serviced in time to help you achieve whole-home comfort in the warmer temperatures. Most people don’t realize that in the summer, the average family spends about 40% of their energy bill for air conditioning the house. Periodic maintenance on your air conditioner can help you save money by improving its overall energy efficiency, as well as helping to prevent expensive emergency breakdowns.

Spring is in the air, and if you want to ensure your home’s air conditioning is working as it should, when it is needed, following the above spring HVAC tips can help, and so can Bragg Cooling, Heating & Plumbing.

Working with a trusted and experienced AC professional is one of the most important factors when it comes to the long-term efficiency of your cooling system. Contact us today to schedule your AC tune-up or for any of your heating and cooling needs.

 

July 12, 2022

No one wants to deal with a comfort system that is showing signs of inefficiency or having recurring issues. If you have noticed that your AC is not performing as it should and blowing warm air, making new noises, doesn’t work at all, or has another issue, you don’t want you and your family to be without cool air for too long. You should know the signs that an issue may be looming and be aware of the most common AC problems many North Bay Area homeowners face. Let’s review.

What are the Most Common AC Problems?

You don’t need to be an air conditioner or HVAC expert to know when something is wrong with your cooling system. There are common AC problems you could face that are usually easy to identify on your own; however, the fix, may require calling in a North Bay Area cooling expert. Below we take a look at some of the most frequent issues we see.

• AC Will Not Kick On: One of the most obvious issues you could have with your air conditioning is that it will not turn on at all. Maybe it kicked on when you initially started it and now will not come on, or if it wouldn’t start at all, either way, if it’s not working, there is a problem of some sort. The hindrance could be as simple as your thermostat not being set to a low enough temperature, needing new batteries, not being set to AC, or maybe needing to be replaced all together. If you can’t find an issue with your thermostat, contact a local AC repair professional to help you diagnose and resolve the problem.
• New Noises: Your air conditioning should never be making noises that are louder than a hum. If you notice a hissing, clicking, thumping or rattling, screeching, or buzzing, that is not normal, and there is an issue. If your AC is making sounds, it is trying to tell you something, so don’t ignore it. The new noises could indicate that there is a refrigerant leak, blower or motor issue, the condenser fan motor has a problem, there are loose parts, there’s an electrical issue, or more.
• Unpleasant Odors: Much like you should listen for signs of an issue with your AC, you should also keep your other senses alert. If you smell something burning when your AC is on, there could be an electrical issue, the air filters could be dirty and blocked, or there could be another issue. If you notice a musty smell, there could be mold or mildew built up in your unit caused by improper drainage or another source. You won’t want to leave the smell unattended for too long, as it is not only less than enjoyable, it could be impacting your home’s indoor air quality.
• Leaking Liquid: Again with your senses, keep your eyes peeled for signs of an AC problem. It’s usually rather easy to spot when you have liquid somewhere in your home, where it shouldn’t be; however, an AC refrigerant leak may appear within the unit, so it’s not super easy to detect. If you notice colored stains or liquid near your air conditioner, you likely have an issue. While it is okay to see some condensation on the outside of the unit, there should never be excessive moisture or colored stains.
• No Cold Air: Another common AC problem people face is when they hear their AC running, but don’t feel any air coming out, or the air is warmer than usual. If your air conditioning is blowing warm air, there is a reason, and some are easier than others to identify and fix. As mentioned above, check your thermostat for any issues and make sure you have clean unobstructed air filters. If both your thermostat and air filters are in good condition, there could be an issue with your condenser, refrigerant, air ducts, or something else.

 

The majority of common AC problems are caused by a lack of maintenance. Dirty air filters, in particular, are to blame for a number of issues, including frozen evaporator coils and the blower motor overheating.

AC routine maintenance is the most important investment you can make for your air conditioning system. This not only includes replacing the air filter every 1 to 3 months, but it should also include professional inspections and tune ups as well.

At Bragg Plumbing Heating & Cooling we can help. If you are having trouble with your air conditioner, don’t hesitate to contact our Marin, Sonoma, and Napa County AC repair technicians for professional troubleshooting. We will take the time to explain what’s causing your cooling problem and discuss your options for repair.