Ambient Air Solutions Blog: Archive for the ‘Air Conditioning’ Category

Is Your AC Dealing With a Refrigerant Leak?

Monday, August 9th, 2021
Technician in a yellow hard hat repairing an outdoor HVAC unit for heating and air conditioning repair.

Are you wondering if your air conditioner has a refrigerant leak? A refrigerant leak may not seem like a big problem at first. However, it compromises the performance of your air conditioner leading to issues like longer cooling cycles, short cycling, poor temperature control, and more.

Inhaling the coolant can also have a number of side effects on your health and making direct contact with it can be even more harmful. It can cause dizziness, frostbite, and chemical burns.

Fortunately, there are several ways that we can help you identify if your AC has a refrigerant leak. Knowing these signs and symptoms can help you determine if your AC is malfunctioning so you can call for repairs ASAP.

Choosing a professional HVAC repair service offers several benefits, including maintaining your system’s warranty coverage, receiving quick service thanks to stocked parts, and ensuring safety during repairs. Reliable HVAC repair services provide trustworthy service and quicker repairs, while licensed and insured HVAC technicians ensure compliance with safety standards. Reliable HVAC repair services focus on clear communication and responsible system care. It’s important to hire a company led by a knowledgeable owner who upholds quality and safety standards. Transparent service, including clear communication and reliable scheduling, is a core value of reputable HVAC repair providers. Reputable companies should carry insurance coverage, including general liability and workers’ compensation, to protect both clients and employees. Ambient Air Solutions stands out with strong positive reviews for professional, knowledgeable, and friendly technicians, and has been established for over 35 years. Additionally, professional repairs help you save money in the long run by preventing recurring issues and ensuring quality work.

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Our Guide to Changing Your Air Filter

Monday, July 26th, 2021

It can be very annoying to see your air conditioning system shut down in the middle of a hot summer day. There are plenty of reasons why that happens. It could be due to a fault with the compressor or a malfunctioning thermostat. Sometimes, all you need is a filter change to get it back into working order.

In this blog, we present a short guide on how to change your air filter to get nice and smooth air conditioning in Livingston, MT.

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3 Good Reasons to Invest in a Heat Pump

Monday, July 12th, 2021

Heat pumps are becoming increasingly popular among homeowners in Montana as people understand the wonderful advantages that come with this HVAC system. These air conditioning systems have become particularly common in climates where homeowners have to deal with hot summers and mild winters, making them an ideal fit for heating and cooling needs throughout the year. If you’re new to this technology, it’s worth exploring how heat pumps work and why they’re gaining attention.

If the time has come for you to invest in a new HVAC system, installing a heat pump could be the ideal way for you to meet your needs for air conditioning in Bozeman, MT. If you are unsure whether you should stick with the traditional central air conditioner or upgrade to a heat pump, this guide will help you.

We will list some of the most important reasons why you should consider investing in a heat pump for your home in Bozeman.

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It’s Time to Upgrade Your HVAC System

Monday, June 28th, 2021
Top view of a modern HVAC unit, commonly used in heating and air conditioning repair.

When you hear the word AC replacement, what comes to your mind? Is it the horror of seeing thousands of dollars deducted from your bank account? Or perhaps it’s the terrifying realization that it might take all day and you’d have to miss a day of work, or find someone to take care of the kids so they don’t get in the way? Just take a moment to think about those situations and remember they’re usually not how a replacement works.

Advertisements and the media have done a good job making us think we need to pinch every penny and repair our HVAC systems well past their retirement age. The truth is that homeowners end up saving more money with a normal replacement than repairing their ancient systems year after year. A new hvac unit should be installed by an experienced technician to ensure proper setup, efficiency, and long-term reliability. Professional HVAC contractors can perform load calculations to determine the correct system size, which is crucial for optimal performance and energy efficiency. It is important to consider your home’s heating needs during load calculations and system selection to ensure optimal performance and comfort. Selecting an HVAC system involves assessing home characteristics like size and insulation, as these factors significantly impact the system’s effectiveness. Most homeowners do not have the expertise needed to select, size, and install HVAC systems themselves, making professional assistance essential. Oversized HVAC units, for example, may cycle too frequently, leading to reduced comfort and inefficiency.

Today, we want to alleviate your concerns and talk honestly about replacing your HVAC in Manhattan, MT. No matter how unique your home is, or how particular your situation is, we’ve got your back! An hvac technician will assess your old unit and recommend the right equipment and units for your home to ensure optimal comfort and efficiency.

Your AC is old. If your system is more than 10–15 years old, it’s likely time for a replacement. Replacing an old unit with a new ac unit can reduce labor costs and improve performance, making your home more comfortable and energy efficient.

The average costs to install a new hvac unit can vary depending on the type of equipment selected and the labor costs involved. Proper installation by a qualified technician ensures your new system is installed correctly for maximum efficiency and longevity. Additionally, installing new ductwork can add between $2,000 and $3,000 to the overall HVAC installation costs, so it’s important to factor this into your budget. HVAC installation typically takes four to eight hours, depending on the complexity of the system, so plan accordingly when scheduling your installation. Safety precautions are necessary when installing HVAC systems due to gas and electrical concerns, which is another reason to rely on professional technicians. Installing an HVAC system without proper knowledge can void manufacturers’ warranties, emphasizing the importance of hiring trained professionals.

Getting Started with HVAC Installation

When it comes to creating a comfortable and energy-efficient home, the importance of a proper HVAC installation can’t be overstated. A well-installed HVAC system is the foundation for reliable heating and cooling, helping you maintain the perfect indoor climate while keeping energy bills in check. Whether you’re considering central air, heat pumps, or furnaces, understanding the installation process is key to maximizing the benefits of your investment.

A successful HVAC installation starts with careful planning and a clear understanding of your home’s unique needs. It’s not just about choosing the right equipment, it’s about making sure your new system is installed according to local building codes and industry best practices. This ensures your HVAC system operates efficiently, safely, and provides long term savings for years to come.

Partnering with a reputable HVAC company is essential. Experienced professionals will assess your home, recommend the best system for your space, and handle every step of the installation process. With the right team on your side, you can enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing your HVAC system is set up for optimal performance and energy efficiency.

How HVAC Systems Work

Before you dive into a new HVAC installation, it’s important to understand what makes up an HVAC system and how each component contributes to your home’s comfort and efficiency. At its core, an HVAC system includes an air conditioner or central air conditioner, a furnace, a thermostat, and the ductwork that distributes air throughout your home. Each of these components plays a vital role in maintaining the right temperature and air quality.

One of the most important factors to consider is the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) of your air conditioning system. The SEER rating measures how efficiently an air conditioner uses energy to cool your home, the higher the SEER, the lower your energy costs. When comparing cooling systems, look for models with high SEER ratings to maximize energy efficiency and minimize monthly bills.

You’ll also want to think about the type of system that best fits your needs. Central air conditioners are a popular choice for whole-home cooling, while ductless mini splits offer flexibility for homes without existing ductwork. The right system will depend on your home’s size, layout, and heating and cooling requirements. By understanding the basics of HVAC systems, you’ll be better equipped to make decisions that improve comfort, efficiency, and long-term savings.

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Is It Time to Install a Ductless System?

Tuesday, June 1st, 2021
Ductless HVAC system installed above a modern sofa in a residential living room.

We talk about ductless mini splits a lot, but we want to give ourselves a chance to explain why. Ductless heating and cooling is an essential part of the HVAC industry that homeowners need to be aware of. If you’ve got a home that’s small, or perhaps even a cabin that you’ve built with the help of family members, you don’t have to invest in the ductwork to stay warm during the winter or cool during the summer. There are alternatives out there, and we need to make that absolutely clear.

Does this mean that everyone needs to have a ductless mini split in Bozeman, MT? Well, no. But it means that everyone should be aware of the options in the HVAC market.  If you’re still deciding between system types, it may help to compare central AC systems vs. ductless mini splits to see what fits your home best.

Keep reading as we explain why ductless systems are a good choice. Make sure you call our team if you have any additional burning questions!

When is it time to install a ductless HVAC system in a home?

  • Homes without existing ductwork or with aging, leaky ducts where central AC would be costly to install or inefficient
  • Properties like small homes, cabins, or additions where running ducts isn’t feasible
  • Situations needing zone-specific temperature control, each room or area can be set independently
  • When reducing energy loss from duct leaks is a priority for lower utility bills
  • As a flexible option, if one air handler fails, others can still operate

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Warranties and Air Conditioners: Everything You Need to Know

Monday, May 17th, 2021

I’m sure you’ve heard the term “warranty” countless times while watching TV. Nothing makes a homeowner want to turn the television off more than a screaming, used-car salesman shouting about his amazing warranty while you’re just trying to watch the game. However, as much as we’re not used-car salesmen, that guy on the TV might have a point.

In the HVAC industry, warranties are a well-kept secret. Manufacturers might attach warranties to AC systems so that they’re affordable for responsible owners, but they don’t really care if homeowners void them or not. It’s not money out of their bank accounts after all. We want to encourage all of our customers to keep their warranties for as long as possible.

Today, we’ll talk about why warranties are so important and how they help you save on air conditioner services in Bozeman!

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Our Climate and AC Together: A Guide

Monday, September 7th, 2020

Our weather in Montana isn’t necessarily stable. Outsiders usually have the wrong impression, that our winters are cold and our summers are mild—but that couldn’t be further from the truth. While yes, our winters can get bitterly cold, our summers are often hot and last well into September. That’s why we’ve taken it upon ourselves to continue talking about air conditioning.

Nights are starting to get cold and temperatures during the daytime are still reaching the 90s. That means when it comes to HVAC service in East Helena, MT, you need a solution that keeps you warm and cool.

If you’ve been struggling to keep your home comfortable for the past few weeks, we’ve got two words for you: heat pump. It might be the perfect time to invest in a system that can reliably and efficiently keep you comfortable during these uncertain days.

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Is Your Heat Pump Stuck in Cooling Mode?

Monday, August 24th, 2020

We love our heat pumps here in Montana. They’re the perfect solution to our hot summers. They can be wonderful additions to homes and provide energy-efficient solutions that can keep us comfortable. Honestly, if you haven’t looked into heat pump technology, we highly recommend it.

For those of us who do have heat pumps, we’d like to talk about one of the leading problems we see with these kinds of systems. As durable and reliable as they might be, there’s one common problem that you don’t get with a furnace or a central air conditioner—a stuck reversal valve. Near the end of the summer, you might go to your heat pump to switch it from cooling to heating mode, only to be surprised by some reluctance by the unit.

A heat pump in Bozeman, MT isn’t supposed to get stuck, and we urge you to call us for repairs. Let’s talk about why this happens.

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The Anatomy of an AC: Everything You Should Know

Monday, August 10th, 2020
outdoor-condensor-unit

Air conditioners are complex machines. They’re complex enough to warrant professional service whenever something goes wrong with them. It doesn’t matter how many DIY videos you find on the internet about making minor repairs yourself, it’s always going to be better with professional HVAC service in Manhattan, MT.

That being said, air conditioners aren’t so complex that you can’t get a basic gist of how they work. Their components are fairly straightforward, and just like the interior components of a car, you might be able to save some money by learning a thing or two.

Today, we’re going to talk about the most important components of an air conditioner. From the compressor to the refrigerant lines, we’ll talk about what these components do and how they function in the greater cooling process. Once you know a thing or two about AC technology, it’ll be easier to make thoughtful decisions about the service your system requires.

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Everything You Need to Know About the Fujitsu Mini Split Ductless AC

Monday, July 13th, 2020
ductless-ac

Fujitsu is a company we know and love here in Montana. They build powerful machines that can resist the extreme climate that we deal with, from both the hot and cold ends of the spectrum. When it comes to technology, these systems are the best of the best and we’re going to talk about why.

It’s criminal how little homeowners in our area know about ductless mini split systems. They’re incredibly efficient, effective at keeping homes comfortable, and they can create customizable heating and cooling experiences perfect for many homes in our area. If you’re still wondering whether a ductless system is right for your home, now is the perfect time to explore the benefits. Mini splits in Bozeman, MT should be more popular than they are.

So, in light of trying to inform our customer base more about these amazing systems, we’d like to talk about how they work and why they’re so well-equipped to deal with many unique comfort needs.

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