Breathe Easier in East Tennessee

Look out for these signs: rising energy bills, uneven heating or cooling, strange noises, frequent repairs, the system's age, poor air quality, lack of comfort, leaks or moisture, outdated tech, and humidity issues at home.

Key steps include turning off the power, checking and removing debris, and keeping space around the unit. You should also clean and straighten the fins, clear the condensate drain, and clean the condensate pan.

Musty smells in air conditioners can come from clogged filters, moisture, mold, dirty ducts, and broken parts.

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An aging HVAC system uses more energy to keep your home comfortable, raising your bills. Watching your energy bills can show when it's time for maintenance or a new system.

Keeping enough space helps with airflow to the unit. This prevents blockages that could lower its efficiency.

Air conditioners cool your home by moving heat from inside to outside. They use refrigerant in a cycle between indoor and outdoor units.

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Uneven temperatures might mean ductwork problems, old equipment, or an inefficient system. Getting a new, right-sized, and balanced system can fix this and keep your home comfortable.

Change or clean air filters every 1-3 months, based on usage and your environment. Dirty filters can block airflow and make the system less efficient.

If the smell goes away quickly, it's likely okay. But if it doesn't, or if your home's temperature and humidity are off, you should check it out.

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Noises like banging, rattling, or squealing suggest mechanical issues, like worn parts or loose components. These sounds are serious and could lead to expensive repairs or system failure if ignored.

Regular maintenance boosts efficiency, extends the unit's life, and keeps it running well. A technician can inspect, clean parts, check refrigerant, and spot issues early.

Mold and mildew love the warm, damp places in air conditioners. They grow on parts like the evaporator coil and ducts, causing bad smells.

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Older HVAC systems need more repairs to keep working. If repairs happen often, it might be cheaper to get a new, reliable system in the long run.

Look out for odd sounds like grinding or buzzing. Also, if you get warm air instead of cool from the vents, it's a sign of trouble.

Leaks let in dirt, dust, and mold spores, which can grow and cause bad smells in your ducts.

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Most HVAC systems last 10-15 years, depending on use and care. If your system is getting old, it's time to think about a new, energy-saving model.

Clean the unit, cover or remove the condenser, and clear the area of debris. These steps protect your AC and make sure it's ready for spring.

Blocked vents and not enough return air can stop air from moving well. This lets moisture and mold grow, making smells.

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If you're always adjusting the thermostat or feeling uncomfortable, your system might not be working right. A new, efficient system can give you better control over your home's climate.

Problems like clogged drains, bad insulation, or sealing issues can cause water to build up. This creates a place for mold and mildew to grow, leading to bad smells.

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Regular maintenance, like tune-ups, filter changes, and inspections, can catch and fix problems early. This can save you from big repairs or replacing your system too soon. It also makes your system last longer and work better.

Experts use special cleaners, antimicrobial treatments, and thorough cleaning to get rid of mold and mildew. This helps stop them from coming back.

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New HVAC tech improves energy use, performance, and comfort. Old systems miss out on these benefits. Upgrading to a newer system can save energy and make your home more comfortable.

Cleaning your ducts gets rid of dust, dirt, and harmful stuff that can make your air smell bad and lower its quality.

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