What is Air Scrubbing? Understanding the Benefits for Indoor Air Quality

Air scrubber for HVAC systems is a device that’ll improve your indoor air quality (IAQ). It’s an advanced filtration system that minimizes contaminants in your air when the HVAC fan is turned on.

If you’re wondering how air scrubbers work or how to get one installed, call TRIO Heating, Air, and Plumbing today. Our HVAC technicians are based out of San Jose, CA, and we serve Menlo Park, Pacifica, Santa Clara, Sunnyvale, Palo Alto, and other surrounding communities. If you’re in the Greater San Francisco Bay Area and want better indoor air quality, contact our team today to learn your options or to schedule a consultation.

What Is Air Scrubbing?

Depending on where you live in Santa Clara County, the outside air quality may be quite poor, with heavy pollution and high ozone, especially when California wildfires run rampant in the area. Installing HVAC air purification in your home helps immensely with the indoor air quality, because your indoor air gets pulled through your regular air filters, then hits additional technologies to kill bacteria, neutralize pollutants, and further remove smoke and debris from the air.

Air scrubbing is another term for whole-house air purification. You can have this type of advanced air filtration system installed inside your ducts to “clean” the air using state-of-the-art technology to destroy pollutants and remove even the tiniest pollutants, odors, dust, and allergens.

How Do Air Scrubbers Work with HVAC Systems?

Air scrubbing goes beyond your average air filtration system, using light waves and ionizing processes to neutralize contaminants and remove them permanently from your indoor air. They work by:

• Step 1: Drawing air into the air scrubber unit, which is usually installed inside your air ducts.
• Step 2: Pulling air through a HEPA filter, and possibly a second carbon filter to remove larger particles like hair, pet dander, dust, and even odors.
• Step 3: Air passes through a UV light that produces molecules that neutralize viruses, bacteria, and harmful contaminants. These molecules travel through your home, cleaning the air and surfaces.
• Step 4: An ionizer electrically charges ions in the air that make debris attract to surfaces, pulling them out of the air.

This multi-stage process makes your indoor air clean, safe, and healthy to breathe.

Common Indoor Air Quality Issues Air Scrubbers Can Solve

Here are some of the most common IAQ issues air scrubbers solve:

• Allergens and asthma triggers: Dust, pollen, pet dander, and other allergy triggers are pulled from the air, helping to reduce symptoms like itchy eyes, congestion, and a runny nose.
• Mold spores: Local humidity is high, so the more mold spores caught and neutralized by your air scrubber, the lower the chances of mold growth and illness due to exposure.
• Volatile organic compounds (VOCs): VOCs are harmful chemicals released when paint, furniture, and cleaning supplies off-gas, releasing them into the air. Scrubbers capture and remove these harmful chemicals, so you don’t inhale them.
• Smoke and bad smells: Odors like tobacco smoke and cooking smells are neutralized by air scrubbing technology, keeping your home smelling fresh and clean, even if you burn dinner.
• Bacteria and pathogens: Air scrubbers stop bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms from circulating through your home, keeping you and your family healthier.

Air Scrubber vs. Air Purifier: What’s the Difference?

You may be wondering whether an air scrubber is the same thing as an air purifier. While they have similar jobs, comparing an air scrubber vs. an air purifier is like comparing a vacuum with a broom. They both clean the floor, but one removes debris much more effectively. An air scrubber is the advanced version of a purifier.

• Air purification systems often use high-efficiency particulate air filters, or HEPA filters, to remove dust, pollen, mold, bacteria, and many other airborne particles.
• Air scrubbers, on the other hand, incorporate UV lights and ionizers, along with filtration to remove even more pollutants from the air, including gases, smells, and bacteria.

TRIO offers many indoor air quality solutions. Schedule an in-home consultation today to find out which option is best for you.

Benefits of Air Scrubbers for Your Home and Health

Health Benefits

When you reduce airborne contaminants in your home, you minimize allergens, volatile chemicals, and other particles. Pollutants and pathogens are broken down at the molecular level to enhance your indoor air quality. This is especially helpful to infants, the elderly, and anybody with allergies, asthma, or respiratory disorders.

Improved HVAC Performance

As long as you continue to schedule regular HVAC maintenance and keep air filters clean, air scrubbers will reduce the strain on your heating and cooling system by reducing the pollutants that can accumulate inside the system and on the coils. This will improve its performance and reduce your energy use.

Potential Rebates

California offers many rebates and tax incentives to homeowners looking to improve their home’s efficiency. You can check the state Climate Action site for HVAC upgrade incentive opportunities, and look up whether your home qualifies for additional rebates when upgrading to an energy-efficient HVAC.

Why Professional Air Scrubber Installation Matters

Air scrubber installation should only be done by a qualified, professional HVAC technician. Otherwise, it could be ineffective, or worse, a safety hazard. At TRIO, we have all the tools, experience, and training required to put your new air scrubber in safely.

When choosing an air scrubber, it’s important to consider factors like:

• The local air quality, including the amount of pollution in and around your home.
• Each system’s manufacturer’s warranty.
• Your home’s layout and ductwork setup.
• Your household’s health, and whether you have specific concerns to address.

Our contractors will correctly position and mount the air scrubber, attach it firmly within your ductwork, and test everything to ensure proper operation. Then they’ll install the filters and give one final thorough evaluation before leaving.

To learn more about putting an air scrubber in, you can count on our team to give you all the info you need after a consultation. We’ll go over costs, timelines, and answer all your questions so you get the right air purification system for your needs.

Schedule Air Scrubber Services with TRIO Heating & Air

At TRIO Heating and Air, we always use high-quality products and take the necessary time and care required to do the job right the first time. If you’re looking for a reliable HVAC company to install your air scrubber, contact us at (415) 306-8727 or send us an email through our online form, and our local indoor air quality experts will set your consultation appointment as quickly as possible.

When pest problems, rising energy bills, and uneven temperatures pop up, many homeowners are quick to assume their HVAC systems or windows are to blame. However, the actual culprit could be the crawl space insulation. Poor insulation in your crawl space can lead to moisture buildup, heat loss, and mold growth, all of which can negatively impact your home, health, and wallet.

Explore the most common crawl space insulation problems to help you know when to call an experienced professional for insulation inspection, replacement, or repair.

Why Crawl Space Insulation Matters

Properly installed insulation is the key to a comfortable, healthy, and energy-efficient home. The top benefits of proper crawl space insulation include:

• Controlled moisture levels: Insulation helps regulate the moisture levels within your crawl space, preventing condensation, mold growth, and wood rot.
• Pest prevention: A properly insulated crawl space is more secure, keeping pests like rodents and bugs out of your home.
• Reduced energy consumption: Crawl space insulation improves energy efficiency by regulating the temperature in your home, which reduces the strain on your HVAC system.
• Enhanced air quality: Crawl space insulation prevents mold and mildew growth in your crawl space, reducing the risk of spores, allergens, and odors from circulating in your home.
• Better indoor comfort: Insulation helps regulate temperatures throughout your entire home by preventing heat from escaping your crawl space.

Common Problems Caused by Poor Crawl Space Insulation

Poor insulation in your crawl space can cause problems throughout your home. From rising monthly bills to potential health hazards, discover the most common issues homeowners deal with below.

Uncomfortable Temperatures

Without proper insulation, your crawl space stays chilly during the cold winter months. As heat naturally travels toward colder areas, the temperatures inside your home may drop, leaving you with cold floors and rooms that won’t stay warm. In the summer, the reverse happens, as heat from the crawlspace seeps into your home, causing rising temperatures.

Moisture and Mold

Lack of insulation makes your crawl space more prone to condensation, leaks, and rising humidity, which can lead to moisture problems and mold growth. Damp conditions create an ideal environment for mold and mildew to thrive, causing health problems, structural damage, and musty odors to circulate throughout your home.

Energy Waste

With heat escaping from your crawl space, your HVAC system has to work harder to keep your home at a comfortable temperature. Drafts, air leaks, and temperature changes cause your heating and cooling systems to run longer, resulting in higher energy consumption and utility bills.

Pest Infestations

Without insulation blocking their path, rodents, insects, and other pests find entry points to enter your crawl space. These creatures quickly make themselves at home, breed, and cause damage to wiring, wood, and the surrounding area. An infestation can also lead to health problems because pests spread bacteria and allergens around your home.

Warning Signs You Have Crawl Space Insulation Issues

Many homeowners are unaware that poor crawl space insulation may be contributing to their home and health issues. Some of the top signs you crawl space insulation isn’t performing properly include:

• Cold floors: If you notice your floors get especially cold in the winter, poor crawl space insulation may be causing cold air to seep up into your living spaces.
• High utility bills: Your HVAC system has to work harder to regulate the temperature in your home, resulting in higher energy bills.
• Unpleasant odors: Mold growth and pest infestations due to poor crawl space insulation can cause musty or foul smells in your home.
• Pest problems: Mice, rats, bugs, and other creatures often take up residence in poorly insulated crawl spaces, leading to droppings, home damage, and health concerns.
• Rising humidity: Inadequate insulation in your crawl space can result in moisture issues and excess condensation.
• Sagging floors: Sagging or bouncy-feeling floors are one of the top signs of crawl space moisture problems.
• Drafty rooms: Inadequate insulation often lets drafts into your home, causing uneven temperatures and cold spots.

How Poor Crawl Space Insulation Affects Indoor Air Quality and Energy Efficiency

Some of the most significant effects of poor crawl space insulation in your home are poor indoor air quality and reduced energy efficiency. Without a boundary preventing heat transfer and moisture intrusion, your HVAC system has to work overtime, and airborne allergens, spores, and irritants are more likely to spread throughout your home.

When your crawl space insulation isn’t performing correctly, you’ll often notice uneven temperatures, more frequent HVAC repairs, and high energy bills. There’s nothing preventing heat from transferring in and out of the space, so your HVAC system has to work harder to reach your desired temperature, causing increased energy consumption and higher utility costs.

Without proper sealing, poor crawl space insulation also affects your air quality. Rising moisture levels, mold growth, and pest problems can cause bacteria, spores, and other airborne irritants to circulate around your home. As these contaminants enter your living spaces, they can cause respiratory issues, unpleasant odors, and worsening allergy symptoms.

Benefits of Professional Crawl Space Insulation Services

Always choose a trusted insulation installation pro for reassurance that your crawl space insulation is installed properly. They have the tools and expertise to calculate the correct amount of coverage, eliminate gaps, and find the right type of insulation for your home. With professional installation, you’ll have peace of mind that your home is safe from moisture issues, pest problems, and unnecessary energy waste.

Insulation professionals also perform inspections to determine the condition of your crawl space insulation and identify any potential problems. A thorough assessment helps you catch issues early and replace your crawl space insulation to protect your home, health, and comfort. TRIO Heating, Air & Plumbing offers rebates and coupons that help you save on insulation services.

Schedule Crawl Space Insulation Services With TRIO Heating, Air & Plumbing

Protect your home and improve comfort with crawl space insulation services from TRIO Heating, Air & Plumbing Our skilled assessors evaluate your crawl space, recommend the most effective insulation upgrades, and quickly install them to prevent energy loss, pest infestations, and uncomfortable temperatures.

Call us or book online to schedule your appointment in San Jose or the surrounding areas today. We proudly serve homes and businesses throughout the Greater San Francisco Bay Area.

The last thing you want to encounter after a great day at Happy Hollow Park & Zoo in San Jose, CA, is a plumbing leak. Knowing how to spot hidden plumbing leaks is key to addressing the problem early and preventing further damage. The team of experienced plumbers at TRIO Heating, Air & Plumbing has some tips about why it’s important to catch leaks early, common signs of hidden plumbing leaks, and more.

Why It’s Important To Catch Plumbing Leaks Early

Not only is catching leaks early the best way to prevent water damage from leaks, but there are many other reasons that catching this issue early is so important.

• Catching leaks early prevents water waste, which is better for the environment and may help to reduce your monthly water bill significantly.
• Finding and addressing the signs of a hidden plumbing leak early saves you money by helping you avoid more extensive and costlier repairs if the leak remains undetected.
• Certain leaks may contaminate your home’s water supply, so catching them early is the best way to make sure your water is clean and safe.
• Early detection also helps prevent mold growth that can lead to a variety of health issues.

Common Signs of Hidden Plumbing Leaks

Here’s how to tell if you have a water leak and some common hidden plumbing leak warning signs to look for.

• Sudden water bill increase: If your water bill is much higher than usual without a change in usage, there’s a good chance you have a hidden plumbing leak.
• Musty odors: Unpleasant, musty odors are often a sign of mold, which could be caused by leaky plumbing.
• Visible water stains: Discolored walls, ceilings, or floors with yellow or brown stains, or wet spots that are located around appliances, pipes, or plumbing fixtures, are a common sign of a hidden water leak.
• Peeling or bubbling paint: If your paint or wallpaper is bubbling or peeling, it may be due to water damage from plumbing leaks inside your walls.
• Low water pressure: A sudden, unexplained drop in water pressure is another common sign of a hidden plumbing leak.
• Foundation issues: Cracks or wet and/or warm spots on your floor are two common slab leak symptoms that may mean there’s a hidden leak present underneath your home’s foundation.

Top Places Where Hidden Leaks Happen in the Home

Knowing the top places where leaks occur is one of the best ways to understand how to find water leaks in your house.

• Pipes, particularly those behind walls or under sinks, are common areas where hidden leaks occur.
• If your home has hard water and you have a water softener, check near the drain connection and other fixtures attached to it.
• A leak may come from your toilet tank, its flush valve, or the toilet plumbing connections.
• Water pooling around your water heater can indicate a hidden leak in your hot water system.
• Loose or damaged connections and hoses attached to dishwashers, refrigerators, and washing machines are other common sources of a hidden plumbing leak.

How to Find Water Leaks in Your House

Remember these leak detection tips to help you find water leaks in your house.

• Visually inspect under sinks, near toilets and tubs, and around appliances to look for signs of leaks.
• Locate your water meter and check for movement after you turn off all faucets and appliances.
• Check for signs like water stains, bubbling paint, and musty odors, which may indicate you have a hidden plumbing leak.
• Review your water bills, and if there’s been a recent, unexplained change in consumption, consider contacting TRIO to schedule our professional leak detection services.
• Listen carefully for dripping noises or the sound of running water when appliances and fixtures are off.
• If you suspect a toilet leak, pour some food coloring into the tank, and if the bowl turns color without flushing, your toilet may leak.

The Role of Professional Leak Detection Services

While recognizing the signs of a hidden plumbing leak is helpful, using a professional leak detection service is the best way to determine the exact cause and location of the leak. This service plays a vital role in protecting your home and makes it easier to find plumbing issues early.

• TRIO’s professional leak detection service includes using advanced tools and techniques to accurately locate and identify the source of hidden plumbing leaks.
• Finding leaks early with expert leak detection keeps your home safe and helps you prevent more significant water damage.
• Scheduling routine leak inspections helps to protect your home’s plumbing system and appliances and extend their lifespan.
• Experienced plumbers know how to find plumbing leaks and can make expert recommendations about the next steps to make sure you repair and stop the leak permanently.

Preventing Water Damage With Early Detection

The sooner you can detect hidden plumbing leaks, the better you’re able to prevent serious water damage to your home and plumbing. Here are some proactive steps to take that will make finding and addressing leaks easier.

• Schedule routine inspections: Schedule routine plumbing inspections and water leak detection services to help you find leaks early before they turn into costly repairs or cause major damage.
• Use water leak detectors: Place water leak sensors under areas like sinks, near appliances and water heaters, and in your basement so you’re alerted to a leak as early as possible.
• Try smart water detectors: Consider purchasing a Wi-Fi-enabled device that sends leak alerts directly to your smartphone, so you always know when a leak is present, even when you’re not home.
• Pay attention to water consumption: Monitor your household’s water consumption and check your water bill each month to look for sudden spikes, which could mean you have a hidden leak.
• Perform DIY inspections: Regularly look under sinks, near appliances, toilets, and tubs, and anywhere else that plumbing is present, to help you locate water leaks or pooling water as soon as possible.

Schedule Leak Detection or Repair With TRIO Heating, Air & Plumbing Today!

TRIO Heating, Air & Plumbing is a reliable provider of plumbing and leak detection services and water leak repair near you. Our team proudly serves customers in the greater San Francisco Bay Area with a commitment to excellence and community well-being. To schedule a professional plumbing inspection or leak repair service, contact us today!

With summer highs averaging 70°F, a reliable air conditioner is key to living comfortably in the Bay Area. Regular AC maintenance helps your system run smoothly, keeping your home cool while avoiding costly repairs.

Explore essential AC maintenance tips, learn ways to improve AC efficiency, and discover signs it’s time for professional AC maintenance from the expert team at TRIO.

Why Regular AC Maintenance Matters

Regular AC maintenance is a reliable way to keep your air conditioner running efficiently. Schedule a professional AC check-up at least once a year, ideally in the spring before the heavy-use season begins. In addition to cleaning the system to ensure it runs smoothly, professional maintenance also helps identify and address small problems before they become costly breakdowns.

Top AC Maintenance Tips Every Homeowner Should Know

Wondering how to maintain your AC unit? These seasonal AC maintenance tips help improve AC efficiency and reduce the risk of air conditioner breakdowns.

Change Filters Regularly

ENERGY STAR recommends checking your AC filters at least once a month and changing them at least every three months. Particularly during the heavy-use season, you may need to change your filters more frequently, so monthly inspections are important to assess the amount of buildup on the filter.

Clean the Condenser

The outdoor condenser unit pulls outside air into your system, but it can also pull in dust, dirt, and other debris. While smaller particles are caught in the air filters, larger items may clog the air intake on the condenser. Improve AC airflow by regularly inspecting the condenser, removing leaves and debris, and gently washing the unit with water and mild soap.

Protect the Unit During the Off-Season

Bay Area winters are typically mild, but it’s still a good idea to protect your AC when not in use. If you don’t use the system during the winter, consider turning it off and placing a cover over the outdoor unit to protect it from rain, dust, and debris.

Seasonal AC Maintenance Checklist

When your AC pro performs seasonal AC maintenance, they’ll typically follow an air conditioner maintenance checklist:

• Check, clean, or change air filters.
• Inspect the outdoor unit.
• Clean indoor and outdoor condenser coils.
• Check refrigerant levels.
• Inspect all electrical connections.
• Clean and lubricate mechanical parts.
• Clear the condensate drain line.

How To Improve AC Efficiency at Home

Learning how to improve AC efficiency at home helps extend the AC’s lifespan, save you money, and keep your home more comfortable.

Choose the Right AC Size

Correct AC sizing is key to improving efficiency. If your unit is too large, it may short-cycle as it tries to maintain the proper temperature. If the unit is too small, it may run constantly and burn out the fans. A qualified AC pro can help you find the best size for your home and energy needs.

Use a Programmable Thermostat

One of the biggest energy drains for an AC system is running it when you’re not home. A programmable thermostat makes it easy to reduce AC use when you’re away and when overnight outdoor temperatures drop. A smart thermostat automatically adjusts to temperature and occupancy levels.

Maintain Proper Airflow

Furniture and other items in front of vents force your AC to work harder to move air through your home. Check for items blocking the indoor vents or the intake vent for the outdoor condenser unit.

Insulate the System

Even if your AC unit is functioning properly, cold loss can still occur through your coolant lines, vents, and other components of the system. Make sure AC lines are insulated to minimize energy loss and inspect for leaks in your vents or other areas where air may escape.

Insulating your home and using Energy Star efficient windows help reduce energy loss and may even qualify you for energy rebates, depending on local legislation.

Signs Your Air Conditioner Needs Maintenance

If you notice any of the following signs, it’s time to call for routine AC service.

Loud Noises

When your air conditioning system is running properly, it usually produces a quiet, consistent sound. However, an air conditioner in need of maintenance may make loud and unusual noises, such as clanging, whirring, whining, or clunking. If your AC makes odd or new noises, it’s a sign to call for an AC inspection.

Bad Smells

A broken AC may produce a musty, burning, or sweet, chemical-like smell. Musty smells usually indicate mold or mildew, which can affect indoor air quality and should be cleaned out by a professional.

A burning or chemical smell needs immediate attention. Burning usually means a fire hazard, while a chemical smell can indicate a toxic refrigerant leak. If you smell either of these things, turn off your AC, evacuate the home, and call a pro for repairs.

AC Turning Off and on Again

A typical AC cycle includes about 15 to 20 minutes on, followed by about 15 to 20 minutes off. Depending on your unit and the temperature in your home, this may be slightly shorter. However, if your AC is turning rapidly on and off (with cycles lasting less than 10 minutes), this can indicate AC short cycling and means the unit is due for inspection.

Rising Energy Bills

If you’ve noticed a jump in your utility costs, it’s a good sign that it’s time for AC maintenance. A gradual rise may indicate wear and tear, while a sudden spike can mean a broken component. Maintenance can help get your energy bill back where it belongs.

The Benefits of Scheduling Professional AC Tune-Ups

There are many benefits to professional AC tune-ups, including reducing AC repair costs, boosting home safety and indoor air quality, and extending AC lifespan.

Avoid Costly Repairs

Unaddressed AC issues can quickly escalate into more significant problems, resulting in costly repairs. Calling an AC pro at the first sign of a problem is the best way to prevent a major AC breakdown and keep your home cool.

Improve Home Safety

While air conditioners are generally very safe, even the best units can become a problem when worn or damaged. Regular AC maintenance helps identify potential issues, such as fire hazards and refrigerant leaks, before they become a risk to your family. Routine cleaning and maintenance also help reduce mold and mildew, improving the air quality in your home.

Prolong AC Lifespan

Modern air conditioners typically have a lifespan of 15 to 20 years when well-maintained. Routine professional AC maintenance reduces wear and tear, helping you get the most out of your air conditioner.

Book an AC Maintenance Appointment With TRIO Heating, Air & Plumbing

Keep your AC running smoothly and avoid costly repairs with annual professional maintenance. Our team of licensed pros at TRIO Heating, Air & Plumbing provides expert tools and great customer service to your Bay Area home. Contact us today to book your next appointment and keep your air conditioner working at its best.

The Greater San Francisco Bay Area faces warmer temperatures yearly, so the need for a reliable air conditioner has never been more critical. If you’re considering upgrading your current system, getting a professional AC installation saves you a lot of time and money in the long run. Licensed professionals understand how to install any AC make, model, and style for optimum performance. TRIO Heating, Air & Plumbing experts provide reliable, professional AC installation services that give customers just like you a wide range of tangible benefits.

Why the Quality of Installation Matters

Before you invest in a new AC system, it’s important to understand why the quality of the installation matters. Experienced HVAC technicians know how to determine which AC system size is the best for your home so that it performs as reliably and efficiently as possible. The experts at TRIO work closely with some of the nation’s best AC brands and use high-quality parts to give customers a dependable system and peace of mind. We offer top-of-the-line replacement units and efficient installations to keep your home comfortable all summer.

Professional Installation Ensures Optimal Efficiency

The energy savings from a new AC are even greater when you choose professional installation. Trained, licensed professionals understand how to select an appropriately sized system so it operates as efficiently as possible based on specific criteria. They also know details like correct ductwork layout and placement, optimal SEER ratings, and which type of system is the most energy efficient for your home and specific cooling needs. All of these things work together to guarantee that your new air conditioner runs at peak efficiency, helping you save on energy costs.

Reduce Repair Costs Over Time

Not only does professional AC installation help with optimal efficiency, but it also reduces repair costs over time. Hiring a professional could save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars in repairs.

• Close attention to detail: Professional AC installers always ensure that each component is properly fitted and calibrated, leading to fewer breakdowns and reducing AC repair costs over time.
• Proactive measures: Experts in the HVAC industry know how to spot and address possible issues like compressor failures or refrigerant leaks during installation to reduce your risk of having to pay for costly repairs later on.
• More reliability: When your system is professionally installed, it runs smoothly and reduces excess wear and tear on major components, prolonging the unit's lifespan.
• Smart long-term investment: Professional installation also offers long-term HVAC savings. It extends system lifespan and keeps things running reliably for 10 to 15 years or longer.

Get the Full Life Expectancy From Your AC System

One of the most significant benefits of professional AC installation is that you’ll get the full life expectancy from your system. A new air conditioning system is a major long-term investment in your home, so it’s important to make sure that everything is done right.

• Warranty coverage: The manufacturer’s warranty remains valid when the unit is installed by a licensed HVAC professional. It should cover specific parts and the cost of labor for certain future repairs to prevent you from paying out of pocket for expensive repairs.
• Pros follow industry standards: HVAC professionals comply with the latest industry standards designed to support maximum performance, efficiency, and system longevity.
• System familiarity: Hiring a professional to install your AC system is a smart way to get reliable repairs later and prolong life expectancy, since the technicians are already familiar with it.

Lower Your Monthly Energy Bills

Professional, energy-efficient air conditioner installation also helps you lower your monthly energy bills. You’ll see noticeable savings every month when you receive your utility bill during the summer months.

• Significant savings: A professional AC installation provides significant savings, and a new air conditioner with the Energy Star Certified label may help you reduce monthly energy costs by approximately 20%.
• Special incentives: Not only will a new AC save on energy costs, but you could be eligible to receive a variety of incentives, including local, state, and federal tax rebates, credits, and other perks to help you save even more.
• Modern upgrades: Professional HVAC technicians can also install a smart thermostat designed to help you save on utility costs, thanks to features like the ability to program the temperature and control AC operation remotely and on a schedule that suits your lifestyle to prevent overuse.
• Minimize air loss: Experts understand how to prevent excess air loss, which results in higher energy costs, by checking and sealing leaky ductwork and making sure that everything is laid out correctly before connecting the new system.

Avoid the Hidden Costs of DIY or Unlicensed Work

The cost of professional AC installation is well worth it to avoid the hidden costs you may incur from choosing DIY or unlicensed work. Only trained professionals understand the intricacies of installing a new air conditioner correctly and safely.

• Improper size or placement: Installing the wrong size AC unit or placing the new system incorrectly may cause a major reduction in efficiency and could lead to early system failure or costly breakdowns.
• Safety issues: Professionals know how to install your new AC following all of the proper safety protocols, codes, and procedures to help prevent serious issues like electrical fires, shocks, and injuries that could occur if you attempt to install it yourself.
• Incorrect handling of refrigerant: Only licensed HVAC technicians know how to handle refrigerant safely and correctly to avoid health hazards. They are also certified to ensure they use the correct refrigerant type and level and install it in the system correctly.
• Warranty issues: Using an unlicensed contractor could void your manufacturer’s warranty, which means you’ll pay more for repairs in the future, even if the issue is supposed to be covered under warranty.
• Increased maintenance costs: Improper installation puts more wear and tear on your system, resulting in higher maintenance costs, more frequent breakdowns, and more expensive repairs.

Schedule a Professional AC Installation Estimate with TRIO Today

If you live in the Greater San Francisco Bay Area, TRIO Heating, Air & Plumbing is the local AC expert you can count on. We offer free estimates, reasonable upfront prices, and exceptional service with unmatched equipment and expertise. If you’re ready to schedule a free professional AC installation estimate, contact us today!

With hot summer days ahead, making sure your air conditioner is ready to tackle the temperatures should be top of mind. If your AC is nearing the end of its lifespan or showing signs of failure, it may not make it through the next cooling season. Rising energy bills, frequent breakdowns, and ineffective cooling are some of the top signals that you may be left scorching during the next heatwave.

Knowing the signs you need a new cooling system helps you get ahead of the busy season and schedule AC replacement before it’s too late.

Why Waiting Until the Heatwave Is Risky

As the hot summer months come near, having a properly working air conditioner is key to keeping your home cool and comfortable. While many homeowners may consider pushing off their AC upgrade until next season, that’s a risky choice that could leave you without cooling when you need it most.

During a heatwave, HVAC companies become overrun with repair and replacement requests. If your unit breaks down during a hot spell, you may be left waiting for days or paying premium prices for the replacement cost. Knowing when to replace your AC before the summer rush offers peace of mind that your unit will be running and ready to tackle the scorching days ahead.

1. Your Energy Bills Keep Climbing

If your energy bills are rising but you’re not using your air conditioner any more than usual, it’s likely time for an upgrade. A failing or aging unit requires more power to cool your home, causing your energy usage and monthly expenses to rise. Upgrading to a new, energy-efficient air conditioner helps keep your bills down as your unit works overtime during the heatwave ahead.

2. Your AC Unit Is Over 10–15 Years Old

With proper maintenance, you can expect your air conditioner to last between 10 and 15 years. If yours is nearing the end of its lifespan, it’s best to upgrade before a heatwave arrives so you’re not left without cooling when you need it most. An aging air conditioner will struggle to cool your home as temperatures rise and may even break down when they reach their peak.

3. Your System Runs Constantly but Cools Poorly

If you have an old AC that’s not cooling your home to a comfortable temperature, it’s likely time for a replacement. Over time, air conditioners lose their efficiency and struggle to cool effectively, especially when temperatures reach their peak. To make sure your unit is ready to handle an upcoming heatwave, consider making the switch to a new system that can keep up with demand.

4. You’re Facing Frequent or Costly Repairs

While you’ll likely have to deal with an AC repair throughout your unit’s lifespan, it shouldn’t be breaking down regularly. If you’re constantly calling for cooling service, it may be time to consider purchasing a new system. Upgrading to a new unit helps you save on recurring repair bills and offers peace of mind that you can rely on your AC when a heatwave arrives.

5. Your Indoor Air Quality Is Declining

As air circulates through your cooling system, it removes dust, debris, and other irritants that diminish indoor air quality. If you’re noticing an increase in allergy symptoms or see visible dust near your vents, your filter may be struggling to filter these contaminants. Replacing your air conditioner helps improve circulation and filtration, creating a cleaner and healthier indoor environment.

The Benefits of Upgrading Your AC Before Peak Season

If your air conditioner is showing signs that it’s due for an upgrade, there’s no time to waste. Getting ahead of the summer rush helps keep your household safe, comfortable, and cool when the next heat wave arrives. Some of the top advantages of upgrading before peak season include:

• Lower service prices: Upgrading early helps avoid the service surcharge many HVAC companies charge during the summer to account for increased demand.

• Reliable comfort: With a new AC system in place, you won’t have to worry about whether your unit can handle the hot temperatures ahead.

• Energy savings: Newer models operate more efficiently than older units, keeping your energy bills and usage low even on the hottest of days.

• Potential savings: Many HVAC companies offer promotions, discounts, or special offers during the off-season that can help you save on your AC upgrade.

Choosing the Right AC Unit for Your Home

Air conditioners come in varying designs, sizes, and efficiency levels. When searching for a new system, it’s important to find a model that suits your home's size, layout, and cooling needs. A unit that’s too small has to run constantly, wearing out faster and struggling to keep up with your cooling needs. On the other hand, one that’s too large may short cycle, leading to uneven temperatures, excess wear, and higher energy bills.

Before deciding on a cooling system, consider the following factors:

• Your home size and layout
• The unit’s SEER rating
• Your budget
• The condition of your ductwork
• Zoning requirements
• The local climate

Is It Time for a Professional AC Assessment?

If you’re having trouble determining which air conditioner is right for your home, contact a reputable HVAC company near you to schedule an inspection. They’ll perform a thorough inspection of your home, including its size and layout, the condition of the ductwork, and the quality of the insulation.

Once the evaluation is complete, they’ll discuss your budget, efficiency preferences, and cooling needs to recommend the right system for your space. Working with a reputable AC technician helps you find the best option for your home and avoids costly mistakes or improper installations.

Stay Ahead of the Heat with a Reliable AC System from TRIO!

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Schedule an air conditioner replacement with TRIO Heating, Air & Plumbing today! Our trusted HVAC proudly serves San Jose and surrounding areas with top-notch AC solutions that keep your home cool and comfortable when you need it most. Whether you need a new AC installation, quick repair, or routine maintenance, you can count on our team to get the job done right. Call us or book online to speak with a team member today!