Tag: ac

How to Patch A Leaky Pipe While You Wait For a Plumber

Jul 13, 2022

How to Patch A Leaky Pipe While You Wait For a Plumber

  • Plumbing

While we at McHales love to see the DIY spirit, somethings just require a professional touch. Leaky pipes are a prime example. When water is coming out of anything but your faucet or shower head, it’s going to take more than a little duct tape to fix the problem in a meaningful way and that’s where we come in. And while our response times are among the fastest in the biz, we can’t teleport directly to your home. Meanwhile, you still have a leaky pipe, which can lose as much as 250 gallons of water through a 1/8 inch crack. While they aren’t permanent fixes, there are some band-aid solutions you can apply to stop the flow temporarily. Here are some easy things you can do to hold down the fort while you wait for the cavalry to come.

Pipe Epoxy

You’re probably already familiar with these types of products since they’re widely available at most hardware stores. Basically, it’s a chemical compound that starts out soft and hardens over time after application to a leak. Think of it like putting some water resistant glue over the hole. They can be relied on for a few weeks, but you still need a plumber to come out and fix the issue once and for all. A temporary solution, but an easy one for the average person to access and deal with. There’s a lot of different brands out there, but for our money, here are some of the ones we recommend:

  • Flex Paste
  • J-B Weld Epoxy Adhesive
  • Oatey Fix-It Stick
  • Gorilla Epoxy Adhesive

Pipe Tape

Literally a band-aid solution. These are exactly what they sound like: tape you put around your pipes to stem the flow of water. Pipe tapes are most commonly made from resin impregnated fiberglass/PVC tape so they can stand up to the water flowing underneath. It work really well on joints and elbows, which are some of the more common plumbing fixtures that spring leaks in the first place. Since they are essentially heavy duty pieces of tape, they do eventually lose their adhesive quality over time usually in a , but in a pinch, pipe tape can be a life saver for a homeowner trying to stop a leak before a plumber arrives. Here’s a few of our recommended brands:

  • Rescue Tape
  • F4 Tape
  • Blue Monster
  • Gorilla Waterproof Tape

Rubber Pipe Connectors

In the event of a major leak at a joint or elbow, a little tape isn’t going to do much for you. Rubber pipe connectors are the thing you’ll need. This remedy is best for leaks that occur around joints or in the middle of water piping. And while it’s much more effective and longer lasting than both epoxies and tapes, it’s a lot more difficult to apply for the average homeowner without extensive plumbing know-how. They may not be the best choice to patch your leaky pipe while waiting for a plumber, we do have some products we tend to recommend for those who it is right for.

  • Watts Rubber Fittings
  • Fernco
  • Cherene

Pipe Clamps

Clamps are another common quick fix while waiting for a plumber. Though more often found in commercial settings, they work just as well holding together a leak in a private home. These pieces of metal are screwed, bolted, wrapped, or otherwise affixed to the pipe, covering the leak. They’re often pretty cheap and easy to apply, so they remain a popular choice among those in need of fast plumbing repairs. And where other products have some variance based on brands, pipe clamps are largely the same no matter which brand you go with. The differences are in the types of clamps, which will vary based on where your leak is and what type/size of pipe you’re dealing with.

Schedule a consultation with a call to McHale’s today!

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patch a leaky pipe 

By McHales

“What’s Wrong With My Air Conditioner Unit?”

Jun 15, 2022

“What’s Wrong With My Air Conditioner Unit?”

  • Air Conditioning

“What’s Wrong With My Air Conditioner Unit?” A dreaded question no homeowner wants to have to ask, especially as we enter the dog days of summer.  Your air conditioner unit is going to be your best friend in the coming months as temperatures soar into the 80’s and 90’s. When your air conditioner unit stops working, you need answers and you need them fast. The best thing to do is to call a professional, but here are some of the most common reasons your AC might be broken.

Electrical Failure

The most common reason air conditioner unit’s fail is electrical failure. An unreliable circuit breaker or a blown fuse are two of the most usual suspects. These are simple enough issues that some handy homeowners may be able to fix themselves. Failing that, there’s a more serious issue at hand. For all other electrical-related mishaps with your AC, we recommend getting a licensed and trained technician on-site.

Frozen Coil

When was the last time you changed out your air filter? Hopefully it was relatively recently, as old, worn-out filters and dirty ductwork are surefire ways to get yourself a frozen coil. The coil is a critical component in your unit’s airflow meaning that it’s a critical component to your AC functioning. You can check your coil by looking down into your air conditioner, but you’re going to need to call a repairman to remove it and install a replacement.

Refrigerant Leak

Refrigerant is the liquid inside your air conditioner unit that empowers it to do its job in cooling down your home. Think of it as the lifeblood of your system. If there’s a leak sprung, it’s important to get it fixed very quickly. Refrigerant fluid can be hazardous to the environment and your health, so it’s best to get it cleaned up and replaced by a McHales team member as soon as possible.

Damaged Hardware

Being outside, your AC is prone to the elements and all that they bring along with them. Important components of your air conditioner unit, including the fan, the compressor, and the electrical connections, wear down over time, especially in units more than five years old. These components are usually obscured inside the unit itself, and issues with them are only diagnosed by a technician digging around in there and finding them. The good news here is that there’s a reliable way to prevent these issues before they get the better of your trusty cooling system…

A Lax Maintenance Routine

Regular HVAC maintenance is paramount to ensure your system runs smoothly when you need it the most. Having a professional come in at regular intervals and inspect your air conditioner unity from the ground up will help you both catch any latent issues before they become AC breaking problems. A trained McHales technician has the skills and know how to pick up on potential problems before they rear their ugly head, but they need to have eyes on your system to do so. Regular maintenance is THE best way to make sure your AC never needs an emergency repair.

Schedule a consultation with a call to McHale’s today!

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drain and sewer repair 

By McHales

Air Conditioning 101: A Beginners Guide to Cooling in Levittown

Jul 13, 2021

Air Conditioning 101: A Beginners Guide to Cooling in Levittown

  • Air Conditioning
air conditioning

Air conditioning is just blowing cold air into your home, right? Actually, no. Cooling the air in your home is accomplished through a relatively complicated process that involves refrigerant fluid that shuttles heat back and forth between an outside compressor as it transforms from a liquid to a gas and back again. It takes quite a bit of electricity to perform this modern magic show of moving heat from a cooler place and back to a warmer place.

Types of Air Conditioning Systems

There are several different technology options involved with the process of cooling your home: central air conditioners and heat pumps, evaporative coolers, room air conditioners and ductless mini-split air conditioners. 

  • Central air conditioners and heat pumps are the most common form of systems, and unlike some of the other options they are often used to heat entire homes. They generally consist of a large compressor that is external to the home and drives the process and indoor refrigerant coils that distribute cool air throughout the home via ducts. Heat pumps work similarly, except they are also able to distribute warm air in the cooler winter months. Ducts throughout the home are utilized for distribution of both warm and cool air in concert with a fan system. 
  • Room air conditioners are mounted either on the walls, ceiling or through a window. These systems work in a similar fashion to central air conditioners, but compressors are located outside the home and the systems are generally built to control the temperature in a single room. These units are less expensive to purchase, but are potentially less efficient and have a higher daily running cost overall. 
  • Evaporative coolers, also known as swamp coolers, can be a practical alternative in certain parts of the country but are much less common than central air or room air conditioners. These unique systems operate by pulling fresh air through an evaporative system that involves moist pads and a whole-house circulation mechanism. While swamp coolers are only efficient in the drier areas of the country, they are very efficient and cost-effective to run and can reduce the temperature of your home by up to 30 degrees. The cost of purchase and installation is also lower as these systems are relatively simplistic. Evaporative coolers work most effectively in dry climates because the system works by putting moisture back into the air — something that isn’t as efficient in a wet climate. 
  • Ductless mini-split air conditioners are more popular outside the U.S., but are gaining prominence with homeowners who are updating a portion of their home or reworking an older addition that doesn’t have ductwork in place. They are similar to room air conditioners in that they are a zoned system, but the functionality is more similar to a conventional central air conditioning unit. When you’re using a ductless system, you also avoid the energy loss that is associated with a traditional system with ducts. You can also maintain overall cleaner air due to the lack of cracks and crevices in the ducts for dust, mold and other contaminants to hide.
  • New technology options include the Night Breeze, which integrates a whole-house fan, indirect water heater and air conditioner in one unit as well as Thermal Energy Storage where energy is stored overnight in ice — ideal for climates where energy costs are high during peak usage times. 

Warning Signs

Other than the obvious (it’s getting hot in here!) signs, there are multiple ways to determine that your system either needs maintenance or replacement. However, if you’re not as experienced with home maintenance and air conditioners, you may wonder if the problem is in your head or if it truly exists. Since air conditioners are used most heavily during the summer months, it’s important to get a tune-up before the heat of summer really kicks in. Qualified and licensed professionals perform a full system inspection to catch some standard problems that can occur. A check up generally includes:

  • Performance test of the full system
  • Visual review of all air conditioner components
  • Tests to determine the state of the refrigerant charge and overall system control testing
  • The use of an approved leak detector to perform a leak test
  • If slow leaks are suspected, your professional may perform a dye detection test

How can you tell that your system is not functioning as it should? Here’s a few things to look out for:

  • Air is not flowing as easily as it should be. If you’re seeing poor air flow through your vents, it’s probably time to call a professional. 
  • Zone issues — where part of your home is comfortable and another part is too hot or cool — are a good sign that there may be something wrong with your thermostat.
  • Excess moisture where it doesn’t belong can also be an indicator that it’s time to call a professional. 
  • Foul odors coming from your air conditioning unit are never a good sign. Mold can grow in wet, dark spaces and an air conditioning unit certainly fits those parameters.
  • Squeaking or squealing sounds coming from your air conditioning unit may indicate that a belt has slipped. This generally requires professional assistance to resolve.
  • Of course, if you find that your home is heating up unexpectedly, or the air conditioner is cycling (turning on and off quickly), you should have your unit checked out. 

With careful use and a solid maintenance schedule, nearly all types of air conditioning units will last upwards of 15 to 20 years. Your system should receive maintenance at least once a year in the spring, before it’s heavily used in the summer heat. This ensures that you’re catching any small problems such as leaks quickly and before they have a large impact on the functioning of your system. The cost of not performing regular maintenance could be decreased system efficiency or even having a system that freezes up or sustains serious damage from broken items such as motor bearings.

Have any questions about your cooling system? Call McHale’s Today!

Schedule a consultation with a call to McHale’s today!

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By McHales

Signs That Your AC May Be Harming Your Air Quality

Jun 29, 2020

Signs That Your AC May Be Harming Your Air Quality

  • Air Conditioning
Old and dirty AC vents

Did you know that a cooling system that is damaged, outdated, or running inefficiently can negatively affect your air quality? This can lead to several, potentially harmful situations in your home. Because bad air quality can be so hazardous, it’s important that you know the potential causes and symptoms. Here are some AC problems that may affect air quality and how they can affect you:

AC Problems That May Affect Your Air Quality

  • You have a dirty filter. Your filter is responsible for literally filtering out impurities in your airflow before its delivered and dispersed throughout your home via a central air system. Your air filter should be changed often, every few months is best. This is especially important during periods of extended use, like the summer months. When the filter becomes dirty and clogged with dust, hair, dander, pollen, or any other debris that may make their way in, your air quality can be compromised.
  • Excess water. If your air conditioner is leaking any excess fluid or it has more condensation than usual, it may be harming your indoor air quality. Leftover liquids can leave you with mold or mildew growth. These spores can grow and spread at a rapid rate. If in or around your air system, they can easily be blown into your home.
  • Duct problems. If your duct system is compromised in any way, it’s possible for debris to build up inside. Because your ducts deliver air directly through your vents, whatever may be built up inside will be delivered as well.
  • Loud noises and strange odors. These are signs that your system may be broken or running inefficiently. In an effort to prevent the problem from worsening, you should have a professional fix the problem.
  • Old or inefficient equipment. Any system that is old, outdated, or running inefficiently has the potential to damage the air quality in your home. If your air conditioning system is out of date, you should consider a replacement. Newer technologies are more efficient and will help to keep the air in your home safe and breathable for years to come.

Warning Signs

You may not know immediately that your AC is harming your air quality. If you suspect that your cooling system may be affecting you, it’s important that you call a McHale’s professional immediately. Here are some signs to watch out for:

  • Increase in respiratory illnesses
  • Worsened asthma symptoms
  • Increase in allergy symptoms
  • Reduced lung function
  • Fatigue
  • Headaches

Importance of Routine Maintenance

In order to keep your HVAC systems running safely and efficiently, routine maintenance is absolutely necessary. Not only will it save you from expensive repairs down the line, it will help to protect against dangerously low air quality. Symptoms may vary depending on the level of air pollutants present in your home, but you should never ignore the signs – no matter how small they may be.

At the first sign of an issue, call McHale’s Inc. 

By McHales

How To Extend The Life Of Your AC In Bucks County

May 28, 2020

How To Extend The Life Of Your AC In Bucks County

  • Air Conditioning

Just like any other part of your home, you want to be sure that your AC works properly and continues to do so for as long as possible. There are several things you can do to lengthen the lifespan of your air conditioner. With a little work on your end and routine maintenance from a professional, your AC will be able to keep your home cool and comfortable for years to come.

Routine Inspection and Maintenance

To extend the life of your AC to the fullest, maintenance is key. No matter what type of system or model you have working in your home, you should have a professional inspection at least twice a year. This allows for an in depth look at the inner workings of your air conditioner. Here’s what you can expect during a professional tune-up:

  • Performance test of the whole system
  • Visual review of components to look for areas of concern
  • Test to determine the state of the refrigerant charge
  • Overall system control testing
  • Leak test
  • If a service professional suspects a leak, a dye detection test may be necessary

Keep in mind that professional maintenance can lower your energy bills and improve the function and durability of your cooling system. To prevent costly repairs down the road, don’t hesitate to call at the first sign of an issue.

What You Can Do on Your Own

While you should always call a professional if a problem pops up, there are things you can do on your own in between visits to keep things running smoothly. To help extend the life of your AC on your own, try the following:

  • Turn it off when you don’t need it. Your AC could use a break every once in a while! If you are going to be out of the house for an extended amount of time, there’s no need to keep it running. It’s also a good idea to turn the thermostat up a little at night when the temperature outside drops.
  • Keep it clean. Dust or debris buildup can damage your AC, even if its just on the outside. Units located outdoors, even partially, are more susceptible, so its important to keep it free of dust, dirt and leaves. If they are left to build up, a malfunction is more likely.
  • Allow air circulation. Without a proper airflow, sufficient cooling will be difficult. Keep vents free from obstructions.
  • Keep your ducts clean. Unless you have a ductless system, you need to keep your ducts clean. Dust, dirt, mold, or mildew buildup can make its way into your air supply.
  • Keep an eye out for leaks. Whether its your AC itself or your ducts, you should always keep an eye out for leaks. Leaky ducts or hoses will result in your AC needing more electricity to function and cost you more on your utility bills.

In order to extend the lifespan of your AC and keep it running smoothly, call McHales and schedule your inspection today.  

By McHales

Signs You Need AC Repair or Replacement

Apr 29, 2020

Signs You Need AC Repair or Replacement

  • Air Conditioning

As the weather gets warmer, you’ll be relying on your cooling system more and more. As your dependency on the machine increases, you need to make sure that its working properly. If you’ve been experiencing issues lately, or your AC doesn’t seem to be working as well as it used to, you may be in need of repairs before temperatures get too high. If your AC is beyond repair, old, or outdated, your whole system may need to be replaced. This can be stressful, but McHale’s will help you every step of the way. If you’re experiencing any of the following problems, call us today:

Power Problems

This is an obvious sign that something is up with your air conditioning system. If you adjust the thermostat, your AC should reach the designated temperature with ease. It should power on to keep you and your family cool and safe during the warmer months. Your cooling system needs to be able to keep up with the rising temperatures outside, so it if doesn’t turn on at all or if it switches often, you should look into a replacement.

Your Unit Blows Warm Air

An AC should always be blowing cool air. If it’s blowing out warm air, then it’s clear that you have a problem. You may be low on refrigerant, in which case it can simply be refilled to have your system back up and running ASAP. If you have a leak, repairs can get a little trickier. A refrigerant leak may be harder to fix but should still be addressed immediately. Repair may be possible, but if you’ve already spent money on repairs in the past, replacement may be in your best interest.

Insufficient Cooling Ability

Your air conditioning system should be able to cool your entire home or a designated area. If some rooms are much cooler than others, it’s a sign that your AC can’t handle cooling your entire house. A professional inspection will help to determine the cause of the problem.

Weird Noises

There’s no reason why your AC should be making weird or loud sounds. If you start to hear any, call McHale’s. It could mean that a piece has become detached in your system, or that foreign debris has found its way inside. It could also be a sign of a bigger problem such as  motor failure. Depending on the extent of the repairs, you may want to invest in a new AC.

How McHale’s Can Help

Our highly trained and certified technicians will be able to asses your cooling system and locate any problems or areas of concern. Once we make repairs, or you decide to upgrade your home with a replacement, you’ll have:

  • Smaller carbon footprint
  • Quieter operation
  • Increased home value
  • Reduced energy bills
  • Better temperature control
  • Increased home comfort

For all of your air conditioning needs, call McHale’s today!

By McHales

Why is Routine AC Maintenance So Important?

Apr 16, 2020

Why is Routine AC Maintenance So Important?

  • Air Conditioning
Outdoor AC Unit

During the hot spring and summer months, it’s likely that you use your AC very often. Because you rely on it to stay cool and comfortable indoors, isn’t it only fair that it gets a little TLC every once in a while? Maintenance will allow a professional to check all the parts of your cooling system and make sure that they are working properly. By having your AC professionally tuned-up every year, you are actively protecting it from breaking down when you need it the most. Here are some other benefits of routine maintenance:

Benefits of Routine Maintenance

  • Improved energy efficiency. When it comes to the appliances and equipment that you use in your home, you should want them to be as energy efficient as possible. A yearly inspection will help keep your cooling system working properly and efficiently.
  • Extended lifespan. If you’re trying to get the most out of your cooling system, professional tune-ups along the way are key. With every inspection, your system will be fully checked for broken parts, wear and tear, and any other areas of concern. Problems will be resolved before they have the chance to escalate and cause your AC to die young.
  • Better air quality. Any AC that isn’t working properly or efficiently can lessen the quality of your indoor air. Allergens, dust, pet dander, and other contaminates can build up in your AC or duct system. When they get released into your air supply, they can cause asthma symptoms to worsen, as well as other breathing related illnesses to pop up. During a tune-up, the filter will be changed and any built up debris will be cleared out.
  • Less repairs in the future. One of the biggest benefits of a yearly tune-up and inspection for your AC is that it lessens the likelihood of serious issues and major repairs down the road. Any problem that’s left unnoticed can escalate rapidly, causing a breakdown in the near future. To prevent potentially costly repairs, you need to schedule professional maintenance.

Why Choose McHale’s?

When you notice that your air conditioner is not working as it should, or you see a sudden rise in your energy bills, you know it’s time to call the experts at McHale’s. We are a full service air conditioner repair and maintenance company here to help with whatever cooling problems you’re having. We offer:

  • Heat Pump Repair
  • Compressor Repair
  • Freon Recharge
  • Air Handler Service
  • Blower Motor Replacement
  • AC Repairs
  • And Much More!

To stay cool all summer long, call McHale’s! 

By McHales

5 Reasons to Order a Heat Pump Installation

Nov 29, 2019

5 Reasons to Order a Heat Pump Installation

  • Air Conditioning
  • Heating

Most of the time, if you’re looking for a system that can both heat and cool your home, you’ll be getting an HVAC system. However, if you’re looking for something different, you might want to consider a heat pump. Heat pumps are a cost-effective alternative to the classic HVAC system. Instead of radiating heat or cold air, heat pumps move warm air into or out of your home to keep if comfortable. At McHale’s, we can help you with a heat pump installation and tell you why you might want to order one for your home.

Here are five reasons a heat pump installation might be right for you:

 

Long lifespans

Every type of heating and cooling system has different lifespans. These lifespans are highly dependent on whether they get proper and regular maintenance. Heat pumps can often last fourteen or fifteen years when cared for properly, which is one of the higher ranges for heating and cooling systems.

 

Heating and cooling combined

Keeping your home warm in the winter is one thing, but what about keeping it cool in the summer? Usually, this means you either need an HVAC system or to have both a heater and an AC. However, with a heat pump, you have an alternative option for heating and cooling your home with only a single unit.

 

Uses a common fuel; no need to stockpile

Electricity is a common fuel source, but many heating and cooling systems use physical fuels like oil or propane. While some of these have dedicated lines, you’ll often still need to stockpile fuel for emergencies. Meanwhile, heat pumps use electricity, which is available for every homeowner and doesn’t require stockpiling. In a worst-case scenario, you can fuel your heat pump with a generator.

 

Very energy efficient

Compared to other heating and cooling options, heat pumps are very energy efficient. The electricity they run on is a cleaner fuel than other options such as oil or gas. They’re also very efficient at using the electricity itself. If you want to maximize your heat pump’s efficiency, they work best when there’s little difference between the source and supply temperatures. This means they work best in moderate climates.

 

Low carbon emissions

Heat pumps are an environmentally-friendly alternative to most other heating and cooling systems. Using one for your home can be a great way to reduce your carbon footprint. For instance, you can reduce your energy usage by 30-60% by using a water source heat pump. This sort of heat pump transfers heat to/from a source of water to regulate your home’s temperature.

 

Why call McHale’s to manage my home’s heating and cooling?

McHales, Inc. is a client-focused home service company that strives to ensure the highest level of customer satisfaction. John Sr. and Anna May McHale started the family business in 1950. Since that time we’ve provided our customers with prompt, dependable service at a reasonable cost. We use quality materials installed by skilled, courteous craftsmen. Now we are into our third generation in the business and we are still following John Sr.’s very simple philosophy ” We do what we say we’re going to do!”. That philosophy is still the backbone of the company today. Call McHale’s today to learn more about heat pump installation!

By McHales

How to Shut Down Your AC For the Cold Weather

Oct 11, 2019

How to Shut Down Your AC For the Cold Weather

  • Air Conditioning

Fall is here and the weather is cooling down. That means winter is coming, and homeowners have to think about switching out their cooling for heating. Like most homeowners, you probably have an AC, which includes the inside unit and the outdoor condenser. To ensure the outdoor unit will be safe, you have to shut down your AC to disconnect it from power and protect it from the elements. At McHale’s, we can advise you on how to properly protect your AC from the winter.

Here’s what you have to do to shut down your AC:

 

Repair any pre-existing damage

Before you prepare your AC for the winter, you should make sure there isn’t any damage that needs repairing. If there is any damage, call us so you can get it fixed up. Allowing a damaged AC to linger through the winter will only cause the damage to get worse, and you might be surprised to have your AC not work next spring.

 

Turn off the condenser

You might think you just have to turn off the indoor AC unit, but the condenser needs to be shut off, as well. If you don’t, a warm spell could cause the condenser to turn on and suck in ice and snow. To turn off the condenser’s power, look for the breaker switch for the AC and turn it off. It’s often found on the side of the house or under a flip-up switch near the condenser. Keep in mind that you’ll have to turn this switch back on in the spring.

 

Clean the condenser

With the power sorted, now you should spend a moment giving the condenser some TLC. Find a broom and sweep away any sort of debris around and on your condenser, such as loose branches and leaves. After that, you should lightly wash off the condenser with a hose. While it’s drying, check to see if the filter needs replacing and examine the condenser to ensure the seals are tight and there’s no visible damage. If you do see any sort of damage, let us know the next time you need our service.

 

Cover up the condenser

When the condenser is dried off, all that remains is to cover the condenser with a water-proof cover. If you don’t own one, you can usually find one at the hardware store or you can use a water-proof tarp if it covers the entire condenser. Also, make sure you use bungee ropes to secure the cover so it won’t be blown away by the wind.

 

What makes McHale’s one of Pennsylvania’s best home service companies?

McHales, Inc. is a client-focused home service company that strives to ensure the highest level of customer satisfaction. John Sr. and Anna May McHale started the family business in 1950. Since that time we’ve provided our customers with prompt, dependable service at a reasonable cost. We use quality materials installed by skilled, courteous craftsmen. Now we are into our third generation in the business and we are still following John Sr.’s very simple philosophy ” We do what we say we’re going to do!”. That philosophy is still the backbone of the company today. Call us today to learn more about getting your home ready for the winter!

By McHales

6 Signs It’s Time for an AC Replacement in Bucks County

Jun 28, 2019

6 Signs It’s Time for an AC Replacement in Bucks County

  • Air Conditioning

We talked before about how important it is to tune-up your AC every once in a while. However, sometimes some maintenance won’t be enough to get it through the summer. Nothing lasts forever, and losing your air conditioning can be a major loss, especially during the summer. If it is still working fine, maybe you’re just being cautious and planning ahead. Whatever the case, Jones Services can tell you the signs that you’ll need an AC replacement in Bucks County.

Here are 6 signs you should get an AC replacement in Bucks County:

 

The AC reached retirement age.

How long have you owned your current AC? According to the National Association of Home Builders, well-maintained AC units can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years. If your AC has reached this point and isn’t working like it used to, it might be time to retire it. It may seem like a major cost, but don’t worry! You can use this opportunity to purchase a modern unit that’s more energy efficient.

 

The AC has a refrigerant leak.

A refrigerant leak is a serious problem with your AC. The leaking coolant can pose a health risk to your family and the water leakage can damage your home. It’s possible to fix serious leaks by getting a new coil, but it might be a sign you should get a new AC.

 

A repair would cost too much.

Sometimes replacement parts and repairs for your AC don’t justify their high costs. It gets more unappealing when you’re talking about a unit with an expired warranty. If this is the case, you should pick up a new unit and get a new warranty.

 

Your AC is making strange noises.

Is your AC operating louder than it normally does? AC units are supposed to run quietly, so any grinding, banging, or rattling noises are a major concern. These noises can represent something like a slipped belt or broken motor bearings. If these issues aren’t fixed quickly, you’ll have a costly repair or replacement on your hands.

 

The AC air isn’t cold.

If you turn on the AC and cool air doesn’t come out within a few minutes, there’s a problem. A wide variety of issues can cause this problem, like low Freon levels or a broken compressor. Whatever the case may be, it’s an obvious sign that your AC has an issue.

 

Your AC needs frequent repairs.

You may want to keep an AC operational for a good while through repeated repairs. However, doing this may eventually lead you to spend more than you would from getting a replacement. This is more likely if your warranty has expired and isn’t helping with repair costs.

 

Why should I have McHale’s install my next AC?

With almost 70 years of experience helping homeowners, McHale’s is one of the area’s home service long-runners. When you call us to examine your unit, we’ll give you everything you need to know about costs, benefits, and installation needs. To this day, we still practice our founder’s policy of “measure twice, order once.” If you’re in need of an AC replacement in Bucks County, just call McHale’s to sort everything out!

By McHales