Author: ONERYNO

As summer starts heating up, so do the demands on your AC unit. The increased energy use always leads to higher energy bills, leaving your pocketbook feeling a bit thinner than usual. In fact, your air conditioner can account for as much as 43% of your energy bill during the summer! That’s a hefty chunk of change. The good news is that with a few simple adjustments, regular AC maintenance, and carefully built habits, you can learn and use summer energy-saving tips to lower your energy bill and stay cool.

Programmable Thermostats 

One of the easiest ways to save energy during the summer is to adjust your thermostat settings. For every two degrees you increase the temperature, you’ll save approximately five percent on your bill. Programmable thermostats allow you to adjust the settings to leave the temperature a bit higher while you’re away at work or out of town and then cool the house back to your preferred temperature just before you get home. That way, you aren’t wasting electricity keeping your home cool while you aren’t there to enjoy it. 

Open the Windows

If you’re going to open the windows, it’s important to know when and how to use them to maximize cooling and not maximize your bill. Try not to leave the windows open all day or while the AC is running. However, you can take advantage of cooler evenings and early mornings by switching the AC off and opening the windows, allowing fresh air to circulate through your home. 

Turn on the Fan

Fans use significantly less energy than your AC unit does and makes the air feel cooler. Additionally, in homes with central air, fans can help prevent uneven cooling and warm spots, making your entire home more comfortable. Use the moving air to help cool your space, and reduce your reliance on air conditioning to lower your energy consumption.

Seal the Windows

Air leaks and drafts around your windows, doors, and other openings allow cool air to escape and warm air to sneak in, forcing your unit to work harder. Seal up any cracks or gaps with weatherstripping or caulking to keep hot air out. The right insulation can significantly improve your energy efficiency. If you have concerns, an HVAC contractor can help identify problem areas around your home.

Cover the Windows

Keep direct sunlight to a minimum during the hottest part of the day by installing window coverings such as blinds, curtains, or shades. It’ll help keep your home cooler and prevent your AC system from having to work as hard. You can also consider using light-colored window treatments that reflect sunlight instead of absorbing it.

Maintain Your Cooling System

Regular maintenance of your air conditioning system by a trained HVAC contractor helps ensure peak performance and energy efficiency. Clean or change out your air filters regularly to prevent airflow restrictions and keep the system running smoothly. Schedule professional maintenance checks to identify any potential issues early on and improve the overall efficiency of your cooling system.

By adding these summer energy-saving tips to your routine, you can lower your energy bills without sacrificing comfort. Adjusting thermostat settings, utilizing natural ventilation, sealing air leaks, and getting regular AC tune-ups from a professional technician with Clay’s Climate Control, are all effective ways to conserve energy and save money during the summer months. Give us a call at 609-916-1106 to make sure your AC system is running as efficiently and smoothly as possible. We’ll make sure you’re ready to handle the heat!

Air conditioners are essential to keep your home cool and comfortable during the hot summer months. But what happens when your AC unit suddenly stops working? There can be any number of reasons for the issue, and troubleshooting the problem on your own can feel daunting. 

Clay’s Climate Control has a team of experienced and professional HVAC technicians who can help. Whether you need simple maintenance or more technical air conditioning services, our team has the know-how to handle it. In the meantime, there’s no need to sit on your hands and worry. There are several steps you can take to troubleshoot the issue yourself.

Check the Thermostat

Checking the settings on the thermostat should always be your first step. Sometimes it’s as simple as the knob getting knocked to the fan setting, and you may simply need to set it back. Make sure the thermostat is set to “cool” and that the actual temperature is lower than the current temperature in the room. 

Check the Air Filter

The air filter plays a vital role in the efficiency of your AC unit. A dirty or clogged filter can result in restricted air flow and prevent your unit from working as efficiently as it would otherwise. If the air filter is dirty or clogged, replace it with a new one. General recommendations are to replace your air filter every three months, but it may need to be changed more frequently if you have pets or someone with allergies.

Inspect the Condenser Unit

The condenser unit is the outdoor component of your AC system. If the unit isn’t functioning correctly, you may not get any cold air inside. Check to make sure that the condenser unit is clean and free from debris. You can use a garden hose to clean it, but be sure to turn it off first! Otherwise, you could have a bigger AC repair issue on your hands. 

Check the Refrigerant Levels

Refrigerant is the substance that cools the air in your AC unit. Without enough refrigerant in the system, it can’t cool the air. Checking the levels may be a job best left to the professionals. If you suspect refrigerant levels are causing the issue, call Clay’s Climate Control and we’ll send a technician out to investigate. 

Check for Leaks

Leaks in the refrigerant lines can cause your AC unit to stop blowing cold air. Leaks can occur for many reasons, including basic wear and tear, improper installation, or accidental damage. 

Check the Ductwork

The ductwork in your home is responsible for distributing cooled air. If there are leaks or obstructions in it, the cold air may not be able to reach you. Inspect the ductwork for signs of damage or blockages. You’ll likely need to call a professional for AC repair or to replace damaged ductwork, but knowing about the issue helps us move faster. 

Schedule Regular Maintenance

The best way to keep your AC unit running smoothly is to have it serviced regularly. Preventative maintenance can catch potential issues before they become major problems, prolonging the life of your unit and saving you money on repairs. The general recommendation is a professional maintenance appointment for your AC unit at least once per year. 

If your AC unit stops working in the middle of the summer, the issue can be more than uncomfortable. Depending on the weather and where you live unregulated heat can become a life-threatening emergency. You can start by troubleshooting the issue on your own, even if you can’t solve it yourself. 

Clay’s Climate Control is the number one HVAC contractor in the South Jersey area. We’ve been serving residents in the surrounding areas for over 20 years. In that time, we’ve built a reputation for excellence with our professional services and knowledgeable staff. If you’d like to learn more about our air conditioning services, give us a call at 609-619-1106.

As spring temperature rises, you’ll be on the lookout for ways to stay cool and comfortable at home. Keeping your HVAC system in good shape plays a major role in a comfortable home, as does indoor air quality. At Clay’s Climate Control, we can help you improve your indoor air quality this summer and guide you to the best options for your home, from filters to air scrubbers.

What It Is 

Indoor air pollution includes harmful particles and gases inside buildings, homes, and other enclosed spaces. The pollutants come from things like smoke, cleaning chemicals, mold, pet dander, dust mites, and certain building materials. 

Your air quality has a huge impact on your health. Poor indoor air quality is associated with respiratory problems, headaches, allergies, and asthma. In some cases, prolonged exposure to certain pollutants can even increase the risk of specific cancers. Fortunately, our technicians are well-trained and experienced in helping you clean up your air and keep your home healthy and comfortable.

Simple Solutions

One of the most effective ways to improve your indoor air quality is by regularly changing your air filters. Dirty air filters lead to poor air quality and cause your HVAC system to work harder, leading to higher energy bills. You should change your air filter at least once every three months, but more often if you have pets or people with allergies living there. 

Our technicians can help you choose the right filters and show you how to change them if you have questions. If you have electrostatic air filters, our technicians will show you how to clean them properly to keep them working. Dirty electrostatic air filters stop working once they can no longer attract particles, so it’s important to keep them clean.

Air Purifiers

In addition to changing your air filters, our technicians can install air purifiers and other devices to help remove pollutants from your home. Air purifiers can be especially helpful for those with allergies or respiratory issues. They remove allergens, dust, and other pollutants from the air. 

UV Air Purifier

We offer traditional and UV purifiers for your home or office. Traditional purifiers are excellent for removing small particles from the air such as dust, mold, and pet dander. UV air purifiers do the same thing, but in addition to removing particulates, they also use ultraviolet light to kill bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms. They’re extremely effective in reducing the spread of airborne illnesses and improving indoor air quality. 

Air Filtration Systems

At Clay’s Climate Control, we keep the latest in-home air filtration systems stocked, including air scrubbers. These air purifiers attach directly to the ductwork of your HVAC system with a HEPA filter and capture small particles like dust, pollen, and dander. they’re higher-powered than traditional, stand-alone air filters, and are an excellent choice for homes with pets or people who suffer from allergies. 

At Clay’s Climate Control, we’re committed to helping our customers enjoy the best possible indoor air quality. Whether you need a new UV purifier or a complete HVAC system overhaul, our team of experienced technicians can help you find the right solution for your needs and budget. Contact us today at 609-916-1106 to learn more about our indoor air quality solutions and how we can help you create a healthier, more comfortable home.

Summer is upon us; is your air conditioner ready to handle the heat? A spring tune-up is the best way to prepare your system for the scorching temperatures and high humidity we experience here in New Jersey. While some homeowners think an air conditioner tune-up is unnecessary, this service can actually help your system run more efficiently, save money on your monthly utility bills, and keep you and your home cool and comfortable. Below, Clay’s Climate Control highlights five reasons we recommend AC maintenance every spring. 

Reduced Risk of a Breakdown

The last thing you want to worry about during a heat wave is whether or not your air conditioner will break down. Having regular maintenance performed on your air conditioner before the summer heat arrives is a great way to ensure your system is ready for the season. An experienced technician can inspect and alleviate any potential issues before they become significant problems. Fixing smaller issues now is almost always less costly than a repair job (or replacement) in the dead of summer.

Improved Energy Efficiency

During the long winter, dust, pet dander, and other debris can accumulate in your AC system and reduce efficiency. In fact, your AC could be losing up to 15% of its efficiency every year without regular maintenance, bringing your energy bills up. When you clean the coils and other critical mechanical parts, your technician guarantees your system runs as optimally as possible.    

Better Indoor Air Quality

Spring is one of the worst times for allergy sufferers, bringing enough pollen to make you sneeze and your eyes itch. If you don’t schedule an AC tune-up, these particles collect in your system and circulate inside your home. During a tune-up, your HVAC professional will change the filters and inspect the system for pollutants like mold and bacteria. Poor indoor air quality has been linked to respiratory problems and other health issues, so it’s essential to have your system checked.

Increases the Lifespan of Your Air Conditioner

Springtime AC maintenance ensures your system runs as efficiently as possible for as long as possible. Most well-maintained units last 15-20 years. Avoid a summer breakdown by scheduling an AC tune-up now.  

Save Money

A well-maintained AC system no doubt saves money by operating at peak efficiency. But it also saves you money by avoiding costly breakdowns. Regular maintenance is nearly always less expensive than repair or replacement and will give you peace of mind that you won’t be left without air conditioning in the middle of the summer heat. 

AC Maintenance and Tune-Up Services With Clay’s Climate Control

With blisteringly hot temperatures and the overwhelming humidity that comes with living in New Jersey, a high-efficiency air conditioning system is a must to keep your home comfortable while keeping utility costs down. At Clay’s Climate Control, we take pride in providing all our customers with timely and efficient service—even for emergency AC issues! Our team can handle a variety of residential air conditioner services, including emergency AC services, AC maintenance services, and AC repair services. No matter what type of service you need, Clay’s Climate Control can handle it all! Contact us at 609-916-1106 to schedule your AC tune-up.

When it comes time to replace your outdated water heater, you might wonder if you should switch to a tankless style. A tankless water heater can offer many advantages despite the more significant upfront cost. While every home, budget, and situation is distinct, below the Clay’s Climate Control team highlights six benefits of tankless water heaters.   

Benefits of Tankless Water Heaters

Thanks to advanced technology, tankless or on-demand water heaters have become increasingly popular in many homes and businesses. Although the upfront cost of a tankless heater is typically higher than that of a traditional style, it can save you money in the long run because these systems are highly efficient and can last longer. Check out several other reasons why you should consider a tankless water heater installation for your home:

Unlimited Hot Water

Have you ever been in the shower when the water suddenly turns ice cold? It was likely due to your water heater running out of stored hot water. When you have a tankless water heater, this will never happen. When sized correctly, a tankless heater can provide a continuous supply of hot water for your home. 

Energy Efficient

Tankless water heaters only produce hot water on demand or as needed, which uses significantly less energy than a tank-style water heater that warms and stores a large amount of hot water. In fact, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, homes that use 41 gallons or less of hot water daily, delivered by a tankless water heater, can save up to 24-34% in energy costs than homes using traditional water heaters. 

Space Savings

A tankless water heater is about the size of a suitcase and can be mounted on a wall or in a small closet. This makes it a great option for a smaller home or a home with limited space.

Longer Lifespan

A traditional water heater’s lifespan is typically 10 to 15 years, whereas a tankless water heater can last 15 to 20 years. With that said, hard water can cause damage to a tankless water heater over time, decreasing its lifespan. 

Easier to Maintain

No matter which type of water heater you choose, there will always be a need for maintenance. But tankless water heaters require less frequent attention than tank-style water heaters. When you select Clay’s Climate Control for a tankless water heater service, we will take care of all your needs. Our team specializes in tankless water heater inspection, routine maintenance, repairs, or a complete water heater replacement.

Lower Risk of Water Damage

Traditional water heaters pose the risk of water damage to your home from a leak or burst. As the name suggests, tankless water heaters don’t have a storage tank, so there is no risk of home flooding. 

Tankless Water Heater Services by Clay’s Climate Control

As the leading tankless water heater experts serving South Jersey, Clay’s Climate Control is committed to providing you and your home with professional and stress-free services. Whether you need a new tankless water heater installation or a routine water heater tune-up to your existing system, we can help! We work with leading manufacturers and complete each job quickly and professionally. Contact us today at 609-916-1106 if you’re interested in a tankless water heater installation at your property.

Usually, there’s no telling when you will actually need your generator, but you will certainly appreciate it when you do. It may seem like an obvious service to keep up with, but the reality is many business and homeowners neglect regular generator maintenance. Installing a generator isn’t enough to ensure sustained operation; you must also maintain it under the supervision of trained professionals. Below, the Clay’s Climate Control team highlights the benefits of regular generator maintenance and why it should be a priority for all homes and businesses.

Helps Identify and Repair Generators Problems Early

Although most generators are built to last, there is a possibility they could experience some issues down the line. When you have a trained professional maintain your generator, they can identify potential problems and repair them before they become major. 

Ensures Proper Functionality 

Regular generator maintenance ensures smooth operation and functionality during an unexpected power outage. During maintenance, your technician will inspect the most critical components, including: 

• The engine speed
• The fluid and oil levels
• Oil filter and air filters
• The belts, hoses, lines, connectors, and any other accessories
• The control panel and the engine
• The cooling system
• Generator supply connections
• Battery cables and battery terminals
• The exhaust system 

Regularly scheduling generator maintenance will ensure your system is running efficiently and safely at all times. 

Increases the Lifespan and Efficiency of Your Generator

Like any system in your home or business, your generator needs to be properly maintained to continue running efficiently. Professional maintenance will help your generator function at peak performance, as well as extend the lifespan. If you don’t make necessary repairs to your generator, it will be more likely to experience issues and malfunction when you need it most. 

Saves You Money

Ignoring maintenance will lead to higher repair costs. In the short term, this will save you a little money, but in the long run, it will cost you more to continually pay for repairs and eventually replace the unit. 

Helps Prevent Fuel Problems

Fueling issues are common with generators, especially if your generator hasn’t been operated in awhile. Without maintenance, you can experience clogs, dead batteries, and algae buildup. When a professional technician services your generator, they ensure fuel levels are checked and the supply is changed, eliminating problems before they occur.  

Automatic Standby Generator Installation by Clay’s Climate Control

From refrigerators to lights, entertainment systems to HVAC units, consistent and reliable electricity is essential in today’s world. However, heavy storms and high winds are common in New Jersey, so power outages are bound to occur. What if we told you you could better protect your home from losing power during these moments? When you invest in an automatic standby generator, you can ensure that your necessities, conveniences, and amenities are available when you need them and backed up when the power goes out. If you’re interested in learning more about generator installation services, connect with Clay’s Climate Control. We offer installation and maintenance of Honeywell and Generac generators. Call today at 609-916-1106 to schedule an appointment.

Your home’s HVAC system is indispensable; it keeps you warm in the winter and cool in the summer. For the entire system to function efficiently, one of its main components, the ductwork, must be in proper working condition. When something goes wrong, the air ducts are usually overlooked, so homeowners have no clue that a problem exists. If you think something is amiss or have been experiencing issues with your HVAC system, it could be time to check your ductwork. Serious concerns may need to be addressed and diagnosed by an air duct specialist, but for common issues, most homeowners can troubleshoot them on their own. Below we share a few common air duct problems to be aware of.

Dirty Ductwork

Dust, debris, germs, and other contaminants accumulate within your home’s ductwork, so it’s no surprise dirty ducts can cause big problems. Not only do dirty ducts worsen the indoor air quality, but they also obstruct the heated or cooled air from reaching you. Having your ducts routinely inspected and cleaned can help ensure the air you breathe is clean and free of contaminants and keep your HVAC system running efficiently.  

Leaks

Leaky ductwork is a common problem that most homeowners may not realize they have. Over time, air ducts get old and degrade, developing holes and cracks. Believe it or not, up to 40% of the air that travels through an HVAC system doesn’t make it to the registers because of these holes and cracks. These damages can be repaired, but if you have a large gap or hole, your ducts may need to be replaced. Clay’s air duct repair or inspection services can alleviate these issues and keep your HVAC system running optimally.

Poorly Sealed Registers

Improperly sealed registers at the duct connection can cause various problems. If the duct isn’t fully closed, air can be distributed into areas it’s not intended for, causing your unit to work overtime. It also allows the entry of insects, critters, and debris into your ductwork and home. Improperly sealed ducts impact energy efficiency and affect your unit’s lifespan. 

Inadequate Insulation

Your ductwork should always be sufficiently insulated. Uninsulated ducts let a considerable amount of heat and air escape, which means your unit has to work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature.

Inefficient Design

Your ductwork should transfer air from one point to another with the least amount of distance and obstructions. Poor design will result in inefficient heating and cooling and high energy costs. Unfortunately, there’s not much you can do in this situation except upgrade your system. A ductless system is a good choice and allows homeowners to create “zones” in their homes to save energy and money.  

How the Air Duct Specialists at Clay’s Climate Control Can Help

At Clay’s, we ensure your HVAC system operates effectively, including your ductwork. Our trained technicians come to your home, examine your air ducts, and recommend necessary repairs or upgrades to make your system as efficient as possible. If you’re interested in building a new HVAC system, our team is ready to suggest new technologies, like a ductless system, that might be better for your home. Contact us at 609-916-1106 to schedule your appointment today! 

Something no homeowner wants to deal with is a furnace breakdown, especially in the middle of winter. Furnaces generally operate without incident when correctly installed and maintained by a professional heating contractor. But when a problem occurs, you need to know the difference between a simple furnace repair and an emergency. Continue reading to learn more about real issues you can encounter to help you know when to reach out for help from the experienced team at Clay’s Climate Control! 

Electrical Issues

Do you notice flickering lights when your furnace turns on? It’s one of the most apparent indications something is wrong with your wiring. Electrical failures and malfunctions are incredibly dangerous and responsible for over 40,000 homes fires a year, resulting in thousands of injuries and billions of dollars in property damage. Avoid being another statistic and contact a professional immediately to diagnose the problem. 

Strange or Loud Noises

Different types of noises can point to various problems with your furnace: 

• Pops – Pinging or popping noises aren’t typically a cause for concern and happen when the ducts are expanding and contracting as the system heats and cools, known as thermal expansion. 

• Rattling – Rattling sounds are a sign of loose panels that could use a tightening. Routine furnace maintenance can eliminate this problem. 

• Squealing – Squealing noises are caused by belt problems. If the belt connecting your motor to the fan slips or becomes damaged and needs to be replaced, you will hear this telltale noise. 

• Grinding – Typically, grinding sounds warrant a call from a professional. It’s a sign your motor bearings need to be repaired or replaced. 

HVAC Is Turning On and Off Constantly 

Rapid cycling is caused by a few factors, usually old or dirty air filters. If you replace your air filters and still notice your furnace turning on and off again too quickly, you’ll want to reach out to a reliable HVAC company to eliminate any concerning issues with your blower motor or belts. 

Unpleasant Odors

Foul smells coming from your home should never be ignored, especially if you smell sulfur (a rotten egg smell). These unpleasant odors often indicate a gas leak which can be life-threatening. If you suspect a gas leak, leave home immediately. Don’t touch anything in your home that uses electricity. Get outside and somewhere safe and call for emergency service. You shouldn’t return to your home until the problem is fixed. 

Blowing Cold Air

Obviously, your furnace’s primary job is to heat your home, so when your heat suddenly turns off for no reason, it implies a problem. First, you should check your thermostat to see what the temperature is set at or if the batteries are dead. If that doesn’t fix the problem, check the air filters to see if they are clogged. You can also reset your circuit breaker. Ensure your furnace blower is unobstructed, and look for a visible flashing green light. If the light is red, or there isn’t one, the problem could be with the blower motor, the run capacitor, the furnace control board, or the transformer. Many of these instances can be avoided with regular furnace maintenance. 

The Best Heating Contractors in South Jersey

As southern Jersey braces for the coldest part of the winter, the last thing you want to worry about is a broken or malfunctioning furnace. At Clay’s, we understand a heating emergency can be stressful, and we’re here to help! If you suspect any of the above issues are happening with your heater, stop what you’re doing and contact our team today. We can help with furnace repairs, boiler repairs, heat pump repairs, and more to ensure you and your family are comfortable this season.

Furry friends bring many people across the country a significant amount of joy, but the pet hair and dander they produce are a different story. Constant shedding, rubbing, and petting creates an unlimited source of pet hair that can impact your home’s air quality and affect the efficiency of your HVAC system. When their fur and natural dander gets into the air, no amount of vacuuming can fully get it out. Regular HVAC maintenance is essential in keeping your system and air quality in good condition while your pet sheds hair and dander. Below our team shares practical tips to take care of your HVAC system, air quality, and furry friend all at once! 

Clean air conditioning filters often.

Your pet’s hair attaches to more items than your favorite sweater or pants. It floats through the air and into the nearest air vent. Inside the vent, it collects together with dust, dirt, and other debris to form one big hairy mess. When this happens, your HVAC system works harder to provide proper heating and cooling, increasing your monthly energy bill. Frequently changing your air filter at least once a month can extend the lifespan of your HVAC system. 

Groom your pets frequently.

You can save yourself from frequent air conditioning filter changes by grooming and brushing your pet regularly. Brushing your furry companion picks up the hair instead of allowing it to float and circulate through the air. Your pets are more likely to shed during the summer than winter, so take your pup or cat outside, where you can easily clean and dispose of the pet hair. You should also bathe your pet often, which not only keeps them comfortable, but it also helps cut back on the dander and hair that your HVAC system sucks in.

Vacuum and clean your home regularly. 

Pet dander is a major irritant that can severely affect those who suffer from asthma or allergies. Regularly vacuuming and cleaning can help eliminate hair and dander, which will otherwise end up clogging your air filters. Cleaning and vacuuming twice a week can reduce the amount of fur and dander your filter has to handle each month. You can also contact an HVAC contractor who can perform an air duct cleaning service for a more professional cleaning. 

Invest in a programmable thermostat. 

Save money and keep your pets comfortable while you’re away with a programmable thermostat. When you aren’t home, a programmable thermostat allows you to lower, raise, or turn off the temperature settings in your home. Ideal temperatures when you’re away in the summer should be between 75 to 78 degrees and 69 to 72 in the winter to keep costs down and pets comfortable. 

Receive routine HVAC maintenance.

Finally, keep up with routine HVAC maintenance. Your maintenance schedule should include an inspection or tune-up at least once or twice a year. It’s wise to mention you have pets so your technician can make suggestions on how to best take care of your system and protect it from excessive pet hair. 

Get Help From HVAC Contractors You Can Trust

Don’t let pet hair stress out your HVAC system! With these valuable tips, you can keep the fur and dander at bay and enjoy cleaner, healthier air in your home. If you need help improving the air quality at your property, you can trust the indoor air quality experts at Clay’s Climate Control. Contact us at 609-916-1106 to schedule an appointment.