Author: claysclimatecontrol.com

Common Air Conditioning Problems

Post author By claysclimatecontrol.com
Post date August 28, 2021

When you live in an area like New Jersey that experiences all four seasons, then your air conditioner is usually your best friend. One day the temperature could be cool and comfortable, then the next it is sweltering hot. Since we can experience warm temperatures even into the fall season, you never know when you’ll need to crank up the AC in your home. It is important to be aware of the most common air conditioning problems to prevent yourself from suffering through a hot day without cool air.

A Lack of Cool Air Blowing

There’s nothing worse than running your air conditioner and not feeling that cooling sensation. Unfortunately, a lack of cold air is one of the most common AC problems. This issue is usually caused by a dirty air filter that is blocking the flow of cool air. Fortunately, all it takes to fix this frequent problem is to change the air filter in your air conditioner.

Your AC Won’t Turn On

Even more frustrating than a lack of cool air is a lack of air at all. When your air conditioner won’t turn on, try flipping your circuit to restart it. If that does not fix the issue, then loose wiring or a faulty thermostat is likely the underlying issue. When this occurs, professional air conditioning service is needed, as the wiring is not something that should be handled by someone who is inexperienced.

Strange Noises Are Coming From Your AC

Noises other than the usual hum of your air conditioning are a cause for concern. The type of sound your AC is producing relates to the root issue, which can be deciphered by an HVAC technician. Whether it’s your belt or motor bearing, once the issue is fixed, you can go back to enjoying the soothing white noise of a properly functioning air conditioner.

Air Conditioning Leaks

Another one of the most common AC problems that people experience is refrigerant or water leakage. Leaks can lead to a number of issues in your air conditioning, ranging from low efficiency to coil freezing. Unfortunately, refrigerant leaks are hard to spot, so frequent inspections and regular air conditioning maintenance can keep those pesky leaks at bay.

Frozen Condenser Coil

Although you may think ice on your air conditioner is making your home cooler, a frozen condenser is actually a sign that something is off. Dirty air filters, blocked ducts, and obstructed condensers can all cause an icy reaction, which needs to be addressed immediately to prevent your AC from failing.

Clay’s Climate Control

If your air conditioner has been showing any of the signs above, then you’ll need to contact a professional for air conditioner repair service. Since 2001, the HVAC technicians at Clay’s Climate Control have been providing South Jersey with unmatched air conditioning repair service in a timely and efficient manner. Contact Clay’s Climate Control to fix your air conditioning issues so you’ll be prepared for warm weather, no matter the season!

water heater

5 Signs You Need to Replace Your Water Heater

Post author By claysclimatecontrol.com
Post date August 23, 2021

Many people refer to the kitchen as the heart of the home, but to us a water heater is even more important. The big gray tank in your basement or closet is responsible for providing you and your home with an endless supply of hot water. Without it, everyday tasks like bathing, washing your clothes, and cooking a warm meal would be nearly impossible. That’s why keeping up with your water heater is so important. If you ever find yourself wondering “how do I know when a hot water heater needs to be replaced?” then keep reading for the most common signs.

1. You Own a Decade-Old Water Heater

One of the easiest ways to determine if you need a new hot water heater is to figure out how old it is. Once your water heater nears the age of 10, a replacement is on the horizon. If you are unsure of exactly how old your hot water heater is, simply check the serial number for a date.

2. Your Hot Water Heater is Making Strange Noises

Hearing banging or rumbling noises coming from your hot water heater may leave you wondering “how do I know if my hot water heater is broken?” These noises typically mean that sediment is building up at the bottom of the tank and is starting to harden. This is a sure sign that you need a water heater replacement.

3. Water is Leaking From Your Heater

If you ever step in a puddle of water near your hot water heater, then you should quickly contact a professional. These puddles are usually caused by a crack or leak in your water heater. If a leak is not taken care of, you run the risk of your water heater bursting.

4. You’ve Suffered Through Too Many Cold Showers

There’s nothing worse than when your hot shower suddenly turns ice cold and ruins your day. If you’re finding that the hot water in your home is just not lasting as long as it once did, then it’s time to make some moves. Per our professional advice, get a replacement before you find yourself in a freezing cold shower again, wondering “how do I know if my hot water heater is broken?”

5. Rusty Water is Appearing

If your hot water heater is still fairly new, then rusty water coming out of the faucet is an easy fix for a professional, usually by adding a new zinc anode rod. However, if it is nearing that 10-year mark we mentioned above, then getting a new hot water heater would be the best solution.

Hot Water Heater Replacements With Clay’s Climate Control

We hope we saved you from searching “how do I know when a hot water heater needs to be replaced”! If you are experiencing any of the signs above, then Clay’s Climate Control is here to help! The team at Clay’s Climate Control can install high-efficiency hot water heaters from the industry’s leading manufacturers, all while providing you with unmatched customer service. Save yourself from the horrors of living with a broken hot water heater and contact Clay’s Climate Control today!

air conditioning

Pros/Cons of Ductless Air Conditioning Systems

Post author By claysclimatecontrol.com
Post date July 6, 2021

The world of HVAC just got a lot more advanced with the introduction of ductless heating and cooling systems. Although this innovative system has been around for many decades in Asia, it has just recently hit the market here in the United States. As the name suggests, ductless HVAC systems involve no ductwork. These indoor systems are mounted on the wall and directly deliver heating and air conditioning to a desired room or area. However, the specifications for ductless HVAC technology may not be suitable for every type of house or room. Let’s take a look at some of the pros and cons of ductless systems to help you determine if this HVAC option is right for you and your home.

The Pros of a Ductless System

Arguably the greatest advantage of a ductless system is its energy efficiency. With the absence of ductwork, you are losing significantly less energy. This means that ductless systems are easy on the environment and your energy bill. Ductless HVAC systems have a small design, which makes them perfect for smaller spaces and new additions to your home. When you add a ductless system to your home, you can expect a fast and easy installation process. This heating and cooling technology only requires a small hole to be drilled into your wall with no intensive ductwork. The unique installation process also makes them less likely to have air leaks and security issues. Last but not least, ductless systems provide you with personalized comfort. Each system comes with its own thermostat, which allows you to control the temperature in different rooms.

The Cons of a Ductless System

While there are many pros to a ductless system, they inevitably come with a few cons as well. To begin, ductless HVAC systems come with an expensive price tag. This technology is about 30 percent more expensive than traditional centralized air systems. However, some find the initial cost worth it due to the system’s energy efficiency. Some people do not enjoy the look of an indoor air system in their home, but that is based on personal preference. Ductless systems actually come with more design options compared to central HVAC systems or window units and usually blend in with the wall.

Revolutionary Ductless Systems at Clay’s Climate Control

Considering the pros and cons, whether a ductless system is right for you is based on the individual needs of you and your home. If you believe that a ductless system is of interest to you, then choosing HVAC technicians who know how to correctly install them is crucial to proper function. Luckily, the technicians at Clay’s Climate Control are professionally trained in installing Mitsubishi ductless HVAC systems – the innovative leaders of ductless climate control. We are proud to provide our clients with the revolutionary Mitsubishi ductless HVAC system, which cuts down on wasted energy thanks to its zoning capabilities. If you’re interested in having your own Mitsubishi ductless system installed at home, contact Clay’s Climate Control today at (609) 916-1106.

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4 Reasons You Need an Air Purifier

Post author By claysclimatecontrol.com
Post date July 5, 2021

It seems we are spending more time at home than ever before thanks to quarantines and working from home. You may think that you are living a healthier lifestyle at home away from all the outdoor pollutants, but that is actually not the case. The air we breathe indoors can be up to five times more polluted than the air outdoors, according to the United States Environmental Protection Agency. Fortunately, the small but mighty air purifier can improve the quality of the air you breathe in your home. Let’s take a look at a few air purifier benefits that help provide cleaner, healthier air.

They Protect You From Airborne Diseases

If you have multiple people living in your home, you are all breathing the same air. If one of them is sick with a virus, like a cold or flu, then those pathogens are spread around your home through the air. Luckily, air purifiers with HEPA filters fight these viruses and bacteria and can keep you from getting sick. Children, the elderly, or those with autoimmune diseases can especially benefit from air purifiers since they need to be protected from these pathogens the most.

They Can Help Alleviate Asthma and Allergy Symptoms

There is a multitude of pollutants that can trigger asthma and allergy symptoms. Some of the most common ones in the typical household include dust, pollen, and pet dander. If you suffer from asthma or seasonal allergies, then an air purifier can greatly reduce your symptoms by eliminating these triggering pollutants in your home. Without these symptoms, you can enjoy improved sleep and a better quality of life.

They Combat Unwanted Smells and Odors

Due to everyday tasks that we do indoors, our homes can start to pick up certain smells. Simple things, like cooking and running gas appliances, can produce unpleasant and sometimes dangerous odors. With an air purifier, you no longer have to worry about these displeasing smells. The machine will absorb the airborne particles and release fresh, odorless air for you to enjoy.

They Decrease Dust Accumulation

Dust is created by an accumulation of hundreds of particles from both indoors and outdoors. Sometimes, it seems like the dust in your home is never-ending. When you have an air purifier running in your home, it will trap the particles that eventually become dust, leaving you with a cleaner home.

Indoor Air Quality Products at Clay’s Climate Control

Now that you are familiar with some of the most common air purifier benefits, you may be wondering where you can purchase one for your home. At Clay’s Climate Control, we supply and install air filtration systems, air decontaminating UV lamps, air purifiers, and other indoor air quality products from the industry’s leading manufacturers. If you are interested in improving the quality of air in your home and living a healthier lifestyle, contact Clay’s Climate Control today at (609) 916-1106 to learn more about our advanced indoor air quality products.

heating

Tips for Summer Heater Maintenance

Post author By claysclimatecontrol.com
Post date June 30, 2021
No Comments on Tips for Summer Heater Maintenance

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We know what you’re thinking…heater maintenance during the summer? The idea may sound crazy, but staying on top of your heating system during the summer months is the perfect time to do it. Inspecting your heater while the air conditioner is cranked up to the max is the most appropriate time to do it since heat is not needed. This will ensure that your heater is ready to provide you and your home with the warmest heat during the cold, winter months. Nothing is worse than being stuck with no heat during the dead of winter. Let’s take a closer look at some tips on how to conduct proper heater maintenance during the summer.

Heating Repair Service

Our number one tip for summer maintenance is to get any necessary heating repair services completed before temperatures start to drop. Any issues with heaters may slip your mind once the weather starts to get warmer, so it is important to fix any broken or faulty parts of the heating system. Sometimes it is hard to tell if your heater needs any repairs. It may bring up some memories of being wrapped up in blankets, but thinking back to the winter months is a good place to start. If your heater wasn’t running as efficiently as it used to or some unusual sounds were coming from it, it may be time to do some repairs.

DIY Routine Maintenance

Although in a previous blog we advised to never perform DIY HVAC repairs, some DIY routine maintenance for your heating system is encouraged. This includes checking if your air filters are clean, cleaning the perimeter of your heating system to prevent build-up, and looking for clogs or leaks in your ductwork. These preventative measures can help you catch any issues with your heating system before they turn into a much larger problem.

Professional Heater Maintenance

Along with your routine maintenance, you should hire a professional to perform an annual heater check-up. An HVAC technician will have the expertise and experience to suggest any repairs that you may need for your heating system. With the proper maintenance, you will be set up to have the warmest heating around for the winter months. It is important to choose technicians who can perform quality heater maintenance.

Clay’s Climate Control – Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning

Now that you are educated on all of the best tips for summer heater maintenance, you may be wondering who you can turn to for your professional check-ups. The technicians at Clay’s Climate Control are the service experts in heating and air conditioning. Whatever the season, we can provide you with unmatched maintenance and repairs for any HVAC system.

This is the perfect time to plan ahead for the colder months! Call Clay’s Climate Control to schedule any heater repairs before the temperature changes. You can also schedule your annual heater maintenance and check-up for the fall before it slips your mind so you’ll be prepared!

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Why You Should Consider a Backup Generator

Post author By claysclimatecontrol.com
Post date June 25, 2021

There’s nothing worse than losing power due to a storm. A power outage is especially unfortunate during the summer months when high temperatures require air conditioning. Furthermore, a power outage is simply a nuisance when work needs to be done or you’re bored and stuck at home. However, with a backup generator, you never have to worry about losing power in your home again. Let’s take a closer look at why you should consider an automatic standby generator and who you can turn to for generator installation.

The Benefits of a Backup Generator

Although it’s possible to predict if and when a storm is coming, it’s very difficult to predict if that storm will cause a power outage in your home. Sometimes it seems like the smallest gust of wind can make your lights flicker. That’s why a backup generator is your greatest storm preparation tool to ensure that an outage doesn’t occur. If a storm is severe enough, it can be days until power is restored.

We often don’t think about how many things run on electricity in our homes. Food begins to rot without proper refrigeration, temperatures begin to rise without air conditioning, and cooking becomes a challenge without electricity. A backup generator can protect your home from flooding as well. Sump pumps can fail with a lack of electricity. As a result, your home can become flooded and lead to even more issues on top of a power outage.

Lastly, a backup generator can save you the stress of having to leave your home because of an extended power outage. There is nothing worse than having to stay at someone’s house or book a hotel room when your power is out. A generator will save you from those uncomfortable stays or the outrageously expensive hotel rooms. When you have a backup generator installed, power is restored in seconds after it goes out. Perhaps the greatest benefit of all is the peace of mind that comes with a backup generator.

Generator Installation with Clay’s Climate Control

Now that you know why you need a backup generator, you may be wondering who you can turn to for installation. Clay’s Climate Control is proud to provide generator installation to those who are looking for peace of mind during a power outage. If you’re looking for the best storm preparation tactic to prevent a power outage, then the Honeywell Automatic Standby Generator from Clay’s Climate Control is perfect for you. This generator automatically turns on when the power goes out and continues running until power is restored. Best of all, it conveniently hooks up to your home’s gas line with no additional fuel required. When you get a generator installed with Clay’s Climate Control, we include a five-year limited parts warranty and 24/7 customer service in case any issues arise. If you want power outages to be a thing of the past, contact Clay’s Climate Control today to schedule a free estimate for an automatic standby generator for your home!

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Don’t Try These HVAC Repairs Yourself

Post author By claysclimatecontrol.com
Post date June 1, 2021

Photo credit: Shutterstock

It’s hard to deny how rewarding DIY home maintenance can be. You get the job done yourself when you want it, and you don’t have to pay for labor costs. Once you get the hang of DIY home maintenance, it’s hard to give up and hire someone when you think a job may be too difficult. However, when it comes to HVAC repairs, you should think twice before doing it yourself.

Due to the intricate nature of today’s heating, ventilation, and air conditioning units, HVAC repairs should be left to the professionals. These repairs can be both difficult and dangerous for even the most experienced do-it-yourselfers. Not totally convinced? Let’s look at a few more reasons why you should avoid DIY HVAC repairs.

1. You Can Risk Your Life

HVAC professionals are trained and certified to handle parts of the job that may pose a safety risk to untrained individuals. Since HVAC systems are connected to the electrical wiring in your home, it is not a job for the at-home handyman. Risks such as electrocution and refrigerant and carbon monoxide leaks can cause injury and even death in some cases. DIY HVAC repairs can be dangerous for both you and others around you, which is why the job should be left to trained professionals.

2. You Need Special Tools and Equipment

While you may have an impressive tool kit at home, HVAC repairs require a little bit more than your average hammer and nails. Due to their complex design, special equipment and tools are needed to work on an HVAC system. Technicians spend a lot of money on these unique tools to ensure the job is done correctly and safely.

3. You Can Reduce Functionality

If you do choose to perform repairs on your heating or air conditioning unit yourself, you can risk decreasing the efficiency of the system. Damaging even one small part of an HVAC system can lead to malfunctions in the rest of the system. Your system may work, but it will not function at its peak performance. These damages will result in an even higher repair cost and can lead to more expensive monthly bills.

4. You Can Lose Your Warranty

You may think doing an HVAC repair yourself can save you money, but it can do the exact opposite as we know already. HVAC units typically come with a several-year warranty when installed by a licensed professional. If something happens and your system is under warranty, you are covered for parts and labor costs. However, if you fix anything yourself, you will likely void your warranty.

HVAC Repairs with Clay’s Climate Control

Although DIY home maintenance repairs can sometimes save you money, it is in your best interest to leave HVAC repairs to the professionals. Avoid the risks and save yourself headaches in the long run with the HVAC expert technicians at Clay’s Climate Control. Contact us today for the most reliable and friendly service in South Jersey!

indoor air quality

How Humidity Damages Your Home

Post author By claysclimatecontrol.com
Post date May 10, 2021
No Comments on How Humidity Damages Your Home

Photo credit: Shutterstock

The hot, humid summer days of summer are almost here. While we all love these warm, sunny days, we could all do without the extreme humidity levels. High humidity is not only uncomfortable, but it can also damage your home. The moisture and condensation that is left from high humidity can create lasting damage to your home. Today we’re looking at how humidity affects your home.

Mold and Mildew

Once the water vapor from the humidity settles, mold and mildew will start to grow on surfaces. You can usually spot mildew in your house on things like a shower curtain or bathroom tiles. Mold in your home can be detected by its dark black or green coloring. Not only do the two affect your health, but they can also damage different parts of your home.

It seems that the walls of your home are mold and mildew’s favorite spots to appear. The fungi can start to eat away at your paint or wallpaper if not dealt with correctly. Look out for signs such as paint that is flaking or wallpaper that is beginning to curl at the ends.

Unfortunately, one of the most common building materials for furniture and floors is also affected. High humidity can target wood since the material will swell when exposed to excess moisture. If the humidity is not dealt with properly, stains and growths will start to appear on wood and can even lead to permanent damage.

Humidity Level to Prevent Mold

Now, before you start panicking and Googling ‘mildew in my house’ or ‘mold in my home,’ let’s go over some simple solutions to prevent mold and mildew from growing. The key is to regulate the humidity levels to prevent mold and mildew in your home. One way to do this is by creating proper ventilation in certain rooms in your home. Ventilation in rooms like the kitchen and laundry room is important because doing things like cooking and washing clothes can cause an excess of moisture. Cracking a window when performing these tasks or using a ventilation hood in the kitchen can be a great way to get rid of the humidity. Second, you should always use air conditioning on days that are particularly humid instead of opening all your windows. If this is not possible for you, a dehumidifier can also be a great option to filter out humidity and moisture.

Indoor Air Quality Products

Now that you know the signs of humidity damage and some tips on how to prevent it, let’s look at some products that will keep the air you breathe as clean as possible. If you want to take humidity damage prevention a step further, then Clay’s Climate Control has the home humidity prevention products just for you! Clay’s has everything from dehumidifiers to air purifiers to WiFi thermostats, all to make sure you, your family, and your home are as healthy as possible. Give the humidity experts at Clay’s Climate Control a call today at 609-916-1106 to get cleaner, healthier air!

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How to Calculate Your Home’s Utility Bill

Post author By claysclimatecontrol.com
Post date May 10, 2021

Photo credit: Shutterstock

If we lived in a perfect world, there would be an electricity bill calculator conveniently available at our fingertips. Unfortunately, that does not exist yet. Whether you’re looking to find out what appliance uses the most energy in your home, how much a specific appliance uses, or your total bill each money, you’ll need to do a little math. Keep reading to find out our proven method for estimating what you will owe each month.

Electricity Bill Estimator

If you don’t want to pay someone to get an exact amount of what your utility bill will be for the month, you can calculate your electricity bill cost by using a simple mathematical formula. For your calculations, you will need three pieces of information for each appliance: the wattage, the average number of hours you use it per day, and the amount you pay per kilowatt-hour (kWh) of electricity. If you don’t know where to find these things, don’t stress, because they are an easy find. The first bit of information, the kWh, can be located on your home’s electricity bill. Next, the average number of hours you use the appliance per day requires a little bit of thinking on your part. Lastly, to find the wattage, look at the bottom or back of the appliance, as it is usually printed on it. You’ll be looking for some numbers followed by a “W”, which indicates the appliance’s wattage.

Once you have found these three pieces of information, you’re ready to use your electricity bill calculator—your brain! Here is the simple formula that you will use:

Appliance wattage X average number of hours used per day
Divide answer by 1000
Multiply that number by your kWh rate

Congratulations! If all of your calculations are correct, then you should have the amount you will pay for that appliance. We know it can be a bit tedious to do this process over and over for each appliance in your household. If you don’t have the time or would rather have a computer do all the work for you, you can check out the many free electricity bill estimators online. If you’re interested in learning about how much money you could potentially save over 5, 10, or 15 years by upgrading to a high-efficiency system, check out our energy savings calculator.

How to Save Money on Your Electric Bill

Now, maybe you did all your calculations and the results shocked you. If that’s the case, and your bill is too high, here are some quick tips on how to save money on your electric bill:

Take shorter showers
Install dimmer switches
Always wash your clothes in cold water
Use LED light bulbs
Remember to always turn your TV off
Use a low-flow showerhead

Calculating your home’s utility bill is easier than you think. We hope you were pleased with the numbers from your calculations, but if you weren’t, we hope some of our money-saving tips helped. One of the biggest ways to save money on your electric bill is to replace old air conditioning and heating systems with new, cost and energy-efficient ones. Clay’s Climate Control can help you out with just that! Give us a call today at 609-916-1106 with any questions about how you can save more money on your utility bill.

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4 Benefits of Being an HVAC Technician

Post author By claysclimatecontrol.com
Post date May 9, 2021

Photo credit: Shutterstock

No matter where you go, almost every building has an HVAC system. Our businesses and homes run on heating, ventilation, and air conditioning to maintain proper temperatures and keep us comfortable. Because of this, the job of the technicians who work on these systems will always be needed. HVAC technicians install, maintain, and repair HVAC systems. There are so many aspects that make this an enjoyable, exciting, and rewarding career. Let’s look at some of the benefits of being an HVAC technician and how to become an HVAC technician yourself.

Every Day Is Different

Working as an HVAC technician is perfect for those who thrive off variety in their workdays. Instead of going to an office every day, technicians are called to different locations almost every day. These service calls for HVAC systems are always different since they are needed in almost every building. Whether it’s a new problem, location, or customer, your work will differ day-to-day. The variety that comes with being an HVAC technician will never feel monotonous and will leave you feeling inspired after a day’s work.

It Pays Well

The demand for HVAC technicians is currently high. This means technicians have the potential to earn a high income for their work. Also, in this field of work, there is always room for improvement through training and certifications. The amount of money you make will never remain stagnant as an HVAC technician.

You Can Be a Hero

Among other things, being an HVAC technician can be rewarding. Heating and air conditioning are essential to everyday life in many parts of the world. When they are taken away, all other things can come to a halt and even become life-threatening. Without these systems, many important businesses, like hospitals, cannot continue their work. Working as an HVAC technician allows you to save the day for many people when their heating or air conditioning stops working. It’s highly rewarding to see how grateful customers are when you are simply doing your job.

Short Training Time

Now that you know some of the main benefits, you may be wondering how to become an HVAC technician. In most cases, it takes under a year to complete an HVAC certificate program. This career does not require you to earn a typical Associates or Bachelor’s degree. There are trade schools that can teach you everything about the field you are interested in without having to attend a normal university. Many different paths can lead you to become a successful HVAC technician and score a job that you will love.

Become An HVAC Technician Today

Did the benefits above pique your interest in becoming an HVAC technician? Well, before you click away to search ‘HVAC hiring near me,’ let’s take a look at an HVAC company that you won’t want to miss the opportunity to work for. Clay’s Climate Control is a family-owned business that has been servicing Atlantic and Cape May customers since 2001. Our HVAC technicians thrive in our high-energy environment and enjoy amazing benefits that are unique to the industry. We also offer in-house training to ensure our technicians are always growing and learning. Contact us today to apply for a position and enjoy all of the amazing benefits of being an HVAC technician!

609-653-2295

info.cly@acehomeservicescorp.com

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