Month: July 2019

Why is My Air Conditioner Leaking Water?

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With the Houston heat and humidity increasing rapidly, the last thing you want to deal with is an air conditioner that is causing problems. We understand you would much rather be thinking about relaxing and making the most of what is left of summer.

But life happens and your AC might be showing signs of malfunctioning, like leaking water. This problem can be difficult to diagnose, especially if you’re new to HVAC maintenance. Luckily, the pros at Weeks Service Company know a thing or two about your AC system and can answer the age-old question: Why is my air conditioner leaking water?

1. Damaged Drain Pan

The drain pan is usually located underneath the indoor air handling unit. The indoor handling unit includes the evaporator coil, which is an important component of your AC system. During the process of air conditioning, warm indoor air blows over the evaporator coil that includes a cooling agent called refrigerant. The refrigerant in the coil absorbs the heat from the warm air which causes condensation or moisture to collect on the coil and drip into the drain pan.

This is our long-winded way of saying that the drain pan is important. It collects excess moisture but if the pan is damaged, old or cracked, condensate might be leaking through. If your drain pan has minor cracks, you can use epoxy glue to repair them. However, it’s better to simply replace the pan!

2. Dirty Air Filter

We cannot stress how important it is to consistently replace or clean your AC’s air filter. A clean air filter improves air flow as well as your indoor air quality. A clogged, dirty filter can reduce the efficiency of your AC and cause other problems such as a frozen evaporator coil.

When air is absorbed and blown past a dirty filter, it might carry the dirt and debris with it onto the coil. Over time, the dirt collecting on the evaporator coil can hinder the coil’s ability to absorb heat, causing it to freeze. The ice on the coil can melt and the moisture can leak excessively. To avoid this, be sure to replace your air filter 1-3 months depending on the climate you live in!

3. Clogged Condensate Line

If there isn’t an issue with your air filter or drain pan, you might want to check the condensate line. The condensate line is an important part of your AC system. When your AC absorbs warm air from your home, it also absorbs humidity. The excess humidity removed from your home eventually condenses and is drained out through the condensate line.

If your AC is leaking water, there is a chance that your condensate line (which is located near your outdoor condenser) is clogged by debris, algae or fungi. When the condensate line is clogged, excess moisture can’t move away from your HVAC system. Instead, it gets backed up into your home. You can try to remove the clog yourself by using a wet-dry vacuum ¼ inch smaller than the pipe opening.

Need A Professional? Contact Weeks Service Company!

No matter what the cause, a leaking and malfunctioning air conditioner isn’t fun, especially in this hot weather. If you think your AC is giving you any problems, just give Weeks Service Company a shout! Our team of knowledgeable technicians will be able to solve any problems your home has, so you can be a relaxed homeowner this summer. Call us today at 281-738-1362 or schedule a service online!

5 Summer Energy Saving Tips

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summer energy saving tips

As the summer temperatures increase, so does your energy usage. You use the AC more often and relax frequently with some entertainment through your computers, TVs or other electronics. If you have kids who are home from school, they’re probably using up more energy and electricity too.

Everything is fine and dandy until the utility bill arrives and you’re shocked to see the spike in your bill. If you’re confused about what you should do to prevent that spike in the future, you’re in the right place! The team at Weeks Service Company has some easy summer energy saving tips for you.

1. Consider LED Lighting

One of the most common summer energy saving tips is to switch to LEDs. LEDs or light emitting diodes are the most energy-efficient lighting technologies. According to the Department of Energy, LEDs use  75 percent less energy and last 25 times longer than incandescent lights. Whether it’s for your kitchen, your living spaces or holiday lights, LEDs are a great option if you’re trying to save more energy.

2. Use Your Thermostat Wisely

With the overbearing Texas heat, it’s understandable if you’re inclined to bring the thermostat down to 60 degrees. However, it’s important you’re smart with your thermostat so you can be comfortable while saving energy and money. Here are some ways you can do that:

  • Set your thermostat at as high a temperature as comfortably possible. If it’s 90 degrees outside and your thermostat is set to 50 degrees, your home will not cool any faster. In fact, your AC might run overtime to provide the cooling necessary.
  • According to the Department of Energy, you can save up to 10 % a year on heating and cooling by simply turning your thermostat back 7-10 degrees for 8 hours a day. Leave your thermostat at a higher temperature when you are away so your AC isn’t cooling an empty home.
  • Consider a programmable thermostat so you can set up a schedule of temperature changes instead of constantly changing the thermostat setting manually.

3. Don’t Let the Cool Air Out

If you want your home at comfortable temperature, it’s important you don’t let the cool air out and keep your home well sealed and insulated.  Make sure your windows are sealed shut and use weather-stripping on your doors and windows to ensure there are no air leaks. To avoid any extra heat, draw the blinds and curtains in the hottest parts of your home.

 4. Make Use of Your Ceiling Fan

Try increasing your AC’s temperature a few degrees more than usual and turn the ceiling fan on.  Fans create a wind chill effect by circulating air in the room, making it more comfortable for occupants, even if the AC is on a slightly higher setting. Just remember to turn off the fans when you leave the room!

 5. Unplug Items Not in Use

Unplug all electronic devices not in use such as an extra television you don’t use or a fully charged phone and laptop. According to the Department of Energy, a fully charged phone that is still plugged in can use up to 2.24 watts. Doing this with many appliances can increase your energy bill by up to 10 %. Remember to unplug, especially when you leave the house for prolonged periods.

 

Weeks Service Company: Providing League City with Quality HVAC and Electrical Service

Consider these energy saving tips so you can spend these months relaxing, without worrying about your utility bill. The team at Weeks Service Company is here to ensure you are comfortable this summer by catering to your HVAC and electrical needs. With our dedicated professionals, you will be in the hands of friendly and experienced technicians who can give you effective solutions to your problems. Call us at 281-331-9555 or schedule a service on our website!