Smell of Fall in the Air.. or is that something else?

Fall Maintenance Programs at Morgan AC 813-500-7765

Funky Furnace Smell?

Ahh, the smell of the crisp autumn air and promises of apple pie and pine trees. Fall weather brings us cooler, welcomed temperatures. While this can be a relief from hot summer days, the temps at night can dip and bring frigid air. It has been many months since your HVAC system has run your heater, and during the latest temperature drop you turned it on. Those pleasant fall smells have disappeared into burning, musty odors. While you should never ignore a foul smell, there may be a simple fix to your smell.

Furnace smells are actually normal and not usually a cause for concern, though can be so strong that homeowners get worried. Here are some of the possibilities causing this strange odor.....

Dust: This is the most common cause for the smell, your furnace has been out of use for a few months and dust settles in the combustion chamber. It can collect in the duct work, and when the furnace is turned on for the first time in the season it gets blown throughout the house. The dust can also burn off and release an odor, though it should disappear within a few hours or the first couple of uses. This scent cannot be completely avoided. Try turning on your attic fan or open windows to help reduce the smell the first time you turn in on.

Dirty Filters: HVAC Maintenance not only keeps your system running smoothly and increases the longevity of your unit, but dirty filters can cause this odorous effect if not changed regularly. Air becomes blocked and cannot flow freely. There is also a possibility that the unit could overheat. It is important to install a clean filter regularly and have it tuned up once a year by a professional to keep it in the best condition in order to save you money and make your home comfortable.

Electrical burning smells, smoke or mildew may be causes for concern. Blocked chimneys and furnace motors overheating require an experienced technician to check electrical components and blockages. Don’t hesitate to call and ask a professional if you have any questions.

Often times, early in the season AC Contractors will offer maintenance and filter specials, Call Morgan AC today and schedule a heating inspection and let the experts help.

Back to School - Fall HVAC Maintenance Tips

Fall HVAC Maintenance Tips

It’s that time of year again! Check-ups for your AC unit are usually planned around the seasons change for fall and spring. Start thinking about your maintenance plan now, and schedule ahead! It is always best  to maintain your equipment in order to increase longevity and prevent future problems with unwanted costs. Your cooling and heating system will be at peak performance by having a local licensed contractor do annual pre-season check-ups. Contractors get busy once summer and winter come, so it's best to check the cooling system in the spring and the heating system in the fall. Here are some basic tips to help you get started!

For the fall and heating season, these are the basic maintenance check up items:

·         Thermostat settings Check this to ensure the cooling and heating system keeps you comfortable when you are home and programmable settings save energy while you are away.

·         Make Sure All electrical connections are tight- we will measure voltage and current on motors. Faulty electrical connections can cause unsafe operation of your system and reduce the life of major components.

·         Lubricate all moving parts. Parts that lack lubrication cause friction in motors and increases the amount of electricity you use.

·         Check and inspect the condensate drain in your central air conditioner, furnace and/or heat pump (when in cooling mode). A plugged drain can cause water damage in the house and affect indoor humidity levels.

·         Check controls of the system to ensure proper and safe operation. Check the starting cycle of the equipment to assure the system starts, operates, and shuts off properly.

·         Inspect, clean, or change air filters once a month in your central air conditioner, furnace, and/or heat pump. Your contractor can show you how to do this. A dirty filter can increase energy costs and damage your equipment, leading to early failure.

As leaves fall, and debris builds with the cooler days of fall, always remember to clear your AC unit of any fallen leaves or pollen and twigs. Protect your family and home by ensuring your HVAC equipment is running safe and efficiently. Save money by reducing your energy usage with a well maintained unit and add value to your home by extending the life of your unit. Many maintenance programs and specials are often available for early birds. Call Morgan Air today and schedule your maintenance, check their website for ongoing deals. www.morganair.net