Over time, your air conditioner undergoes wear and tear that can result in issues such as clogged filters, broken components, and loose connections. These problems strain your cooling system, causing it to use more energy than before. You may notice your energy bills begin to increase, airflow reduction, and inadequate cooling throughout your home.

Addressing these problems reduces the strain and returns your system to its regular function, leading to decreased energy usage through optimized energy efficiency. Keep reading to learn more about the issues that affect your system’s efficiency and the benefits of  AC repair.

Common AC Issues That Reduce Efficiency 

While almost all damages or malfunctions can reduce the efficiency of your air conditioner, some issues make more of an impact than others, including: 

• Dirty filters: A clogged filter reduces your unit's airflow, making it work harder to produce the same results.
• A damaged fan motor: The blower fan moves air over the evaporator coil. When it breaks or malfunctions, it uses excessive energy to circulate air through the system.
• Frozen coils: A frozen evaporator coil cannot effectively remove heat. To compensate, the system goes into overdrive, using excess energy.
• Leaking ducts: Your duct system distributes cool air throughout your home. If it has a hole, crack, tear, or other damage, it won’t be able to do its job efficiently.
• Broken thermostat: A faulty thermostat may cause your system to short cycle, resulting in increased energy usage and improper cooling. 

Signs Your AC Requires Repair

It’s essential to catch AC repairs quickly to prevent the problems from progressing and reduce energy waste. The top signs of a damaged AC include the following:

• Warm air blowing from the unit
• Insufficient airflow
• The system produces foul odors
• Strange noises, such as buzzing, humming, or banging
• Water leaks or moisture near the AC
• Rising energy bills

If you notice any of the above issues, contact a reputable professional as soon as possible. They’ll diagnose the problem and outline the recommended steps to repair it. If your system is over ten years old or constantly in need of repair, it can be more cost-effective to replace it. Installing a new high-efficiency system will reduce your repair bills, cut down your energy usage, and improve the comfort of your home.

The Benefits of AC Repairs for Energy Efficiency

When you address AC repairs, you’ll significantly enhance the efficiency of your system. By reducing the strain and allowing it to operate efficiently, you’ll see various benefits, including:

• Reduced energy consumption: A broken system has to work harder to achieve the same results, resulting in increased energy usage. By repairing these issues, your unit will use less power, operate smoothly, and keep your home cool.
• Extended lifespan: Keeping up with regular repairs and maintenance prevents minor problems from progressing and causing significant damage, increasing the lifespan of your AC unit.
• Improved home comfort: When your system works properly, you won’t have to worry about uneven temperatures or inadequate airflow. Your home will feel comfortable on even the hottest days, and your air conditioner will use less power to cool it 

AC Maintenance and Energy Savings

Scheduling professional AC maintenance at least once yearly is one of the best ways to improve HVAC efficiency. During the appointment, a technician will complete a full inspection, cleaning, and tune-up of your system to ensure it’s in top condition. They’ll complete tasks such as:

• Replacing the filter
• Cleaning the coils
• Inspecting and sealing ducts
• Calibrating the thermostat
• Checking refrigerant levels

By taking these steps, you’ll be able to identify issues before they progress and ensure all components work correctly. This will reduce the risk of breakdowns and improve operating efficiency, resulting in lower energy bills, a lower environmental impact, and an extended lifespan for your system. 

Call Trio for Expert AC Services in Northern California!

If you want to improve your air conditioner’s energy efficiency, contact our team at Trio Heating & Air. We proudly offer comprehensive air conditioning services in San Francisco and surrounding areas. Whether your air conditioner shows signs of malfunction, is due for maintenance, or is ready for an upgrade, we can help. 

Call us or book online to schedule your service today. With years of experience and extensive training, our technicians will help improve your unit's efficiency and give you expert energy-saving AC tips.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I schedule AC repairs or maintenance for optimal efficiency?

You should schedule AC maintenance at least once per year to ensure proper system function. If you notice a problem with your unit between maintenance visits, contact us as soon as possible for emergency repair in The Greater San Francisco Bay Area. The faster you fix the issue, the less likely it is to progress and cause further damage to your unit. 

Do AC units lose efficiency over time?

Your air conditioner will slowly lose efficiency over time as it undergoes wear and tear. If it is over ten years old, consider replacing it with a new, high-efficiency model. Contact our team to discuss your replacement options, and we’ll help you find the best unit that fits your needs and budget.

Is it more energy-efficient to leave my air conditioner on all day?

Leaving your air conditioner on all day will use more energy than cycling it on and off. It’s best to set the thermostat to your desired temperature and allow it to shut off automatically. You can also save energy by turning the unit off when you’re not home or during cool periods like nighttime.

Imagine you’re in the middle of a summer heat wave in the San Francisco Bay Area. Temperatures have hit over 100 degrees, and your air conditioner has stopped working. When you open it up, you’re surprised to find ice inside. 

If your AC unit is freezing up, don’t panic! This is a common problem many households deal with at some point. There are a few reasons ice forms inside an air conditioner. Some are quick fixes, while others require a more in-depth AC repair call.

Trio Heating and Air offers emergency AC repair and other HVAC repair services. We’ll be there as soon as possible to assess the situation and fix the cause of your frozen AC. Read on to learn more about freezing AC units and when to call a professional for help.

Why Is My AC Unit Freezing Up?

To understand why an air conditioner freezes, you first need to know how an AC works. Air conditioners collect heat and humidity from your house and transfer it outside. It’s a process based on the principle that certain gasses change temperature when compressed and expanded.

Your AC has several components, including a fan, compressor, refrigerant liquid, evaporator coil, and condenser coil. These work together to blow indoor air across a cold evaporator coil, which cools the air. Hot evaporated air is sent outside to the condenser, while colder air is sent back into the house. 

The process requires good airflow and the right amount of refrigerant. If either of these is compromised, the temperatures near the condenser coil or evaporator drop drastically, causing water vapor inside the air conditioner to freeze. Without appropriate airflow and refrigerant levels, your AC freezes up.

Some of the most common air conditioner freezing causes include: 

• Mechanical failures: A failing fan motor, broken valves, or bad wiring may cause ice to form inside the AC, leading to further damage.
• Dirty evaporator coil: Evaporator coils become covered in dirt, hair, and other household debris. This eventually blocks airflow inside the AC, causing the coil to freeze. 
• Clogged condenser coil: Your AC's outdoor portion should be kept free of leaves, grass, and dirt. A dirty condenser coil reduces the ability for warm air to blow through the evaporator coil, which stops the refrigerant from becoming warm gas. Instead, it freezes inside the AC.
• Low refrigerant: Pinhole leaks or improper refrigerant charging usually result in low pressure in the coils, which lowers the refrigerant temperature. The temperature gets cold enough to freeze any moisture in the air and causes ice buildup.

Can a Dirty Air Filter Cause My AC to Freeze?

Yes. A dirty air filter restricts the airflow in your air conditioner. It’s one of the most common reasons for ice buildup. 

The evaporator coil needs a healthy air flow to absorb heat from the air blowing through your AC. When this warm air becomes restricted, the coil freezes. The good news is you don’t necessarily need an AC repair person to check your filters. If you like DIY projects, changing your AC filter is a job you can handle yourself.

What Should I Do if My Air Conditioner Freezes Up? 

If you see ice in your air conditioner or it isn’t working as well as it used to, contact Trio. We’re your local experts in all AC services, with experienced technicians who can quickly locate and fix the problem. 

It’s best to call a pro as soon as you notice an issue rather than wait for the ice to build up. Your AC will continue to freeze until the unit is completely encased, stopping the coil from absorbing any heat. This prevents your AC from working properly and may cause it to overwork until it burns out completely.

Trust your local AC repair specialists at Trio to get your AC back in good working order and prevent further damage. 

How Can I Prevent My AC From Freezing Up? 

Here are some simple tasks you can do to prevent a residential AC repair call for a frozen AC.

Change your filters regularly 

The frequency of your AC filter changes will depend on how often you use the AC and the amount of dust and particulates in the air. We recommend changing the filter at least once every three to six months. 

Schedule regular professional maintenance

Have an expert give your air conditioner a full once-over to make sure it’s in good working order. Schedule an annual AC maintenance call with Trio, and we’ll give your AC a full inspection, test all the components, clean and lubricate moving parts, and take care of small repairs.

Know the signs of refrigerant issues and take action quickly

Some signs you have a refrigerant problem include:

• Longer cooling cycles
• High electric bills
• Hissing sounds 
• AC isn’t cooling the room 
• An exhaust smell

If you notice any of these signs, call Trio today. We’ll schedule a service call to charge your refrigerant. 

Contact Trio Heating and Air Today

Trio Heating and Air Conditioning is your local California AC service center. We offer air conditioning and central air repair, AC maintenance, and AC installations to Greater San Francisco Bay Area residents. 

If you’re curious about our energy-efficient ACs or want to schedule routine maintenance for your older HVAC system, we’re here to deliver top-tier solutions for all your needs. 

We respond quickly to service requests, use only the best products, and guarantee the highest quality work. Trust us to treat you with respect and take care of your home. Contact us today to schedule an inspection or book a service appointment. 

Signs you need thermostat repair can be hard to distinguish from other HVAC problems. Others are more symptomatic of a controller issue. If your heating or cooling system isn’t working properly, it’s not always because a major component has failed. Fortunately, thermostat services such as repair or replacement are relatively simple and inexpensive.

1.  The AC or Heater Runs Non-Stop

2. Your HVAC System Won’t Turn On

3. Your Heater or AC Doesn’t Complete a Full Cycle

4. Temperatures Vary Throughout Your Home

5. The Temperature Constantly Fluctuates

6. The Thermostat Doesn’t Respond

7. The Display Screen Is Off or Doesn’t Respond

8. Set and Actual Temperature Readings Don’t Match

9. Scheduled Settings Keep Getting Lost

Has My Thermostat Gone Bad?

Thermostats remain reliable for only a finite amount of time. Eventually, they wear out and parts can go bad. Call a professional if you notice the following signs you might need thermostat repair:

1. The AC or Heater Runs Non-Stop

A thermostat problem can manifest as an issue with HVAC system performance. Faulty thermostat wiring or a miscalibration can prevent signals from reaching the system. Or, incorrect signals can be sent. 

Therefore, an AC unit or furnace may not shut off when the set temperature is reached. If your HVAC system has been running constantly, switch the thermostat off. If it continues to run, the switch may have a mechanical defect, or the thermostat wiring has gone bad.

2. Your HVAC System Won’t Turn On

The thermostat signals the system when to run. If your air conditioning or heating unit won’t turn on, the electrical wiring that lets the controller communicate with the system has probably failed. An HVAC unit cannot function if it doesn’t receive messages from the thermostat. If the system stops running, switch the mode (cooling to heating or heating to cooling). It should turn on; if not, you likely need a thermostat repair.

3. Your Heater or AC Doesn’t Complete a Full Cycle

Short cycling can be a sign of various problems. A failing thermostat is one of them. If not fixed, the issue can prevent your home from reaching or staying at a comfortable temperature. Aside from discomfort, it can cause your HVAC system to use more electricity and cause components to wear out more quickly. Therefore, energy and repair costs can both increase.

4. Temperatures Vary Throughout Your Home

If your HVAC system is working properly, the temperature from room to room should be about the same. However, a thermostat problem can cause your AC or heater to run irregularly. This prevents rooms farthest away from getting enough cooled or heated air. Temperatures should only differ significantly if you have a zoned HVAC system that lets you program a different temperature for each room.

5. The Temperature Constantly Fluctuates

Another sign your thermostat isn’t working correctly is if the temperature keeps shifting. This can cause erratic temperature fluctuations in your home. Thermostat repair can restore comfort if no other issues are found with your HVAC system.

6. The Thermostat Doesn’t Respond

Moving switches and pressing buttons should get your thermostat to work. There should be a subtle clicking sound and the system should turn on within a minute. An unresponsive thermostat is a common problem. It can often be resolved by changing the batteries and resetting the unit. If nothing more serious is wrong, this should resolve the issue immediately. If not, your thermostat likely has bad wiring. 

7. The Display Screen Is Off or Doesn’t Respond

The thermostat’s screen should light up when you use its controls. If it is dead or dark, new batteries may be needed. A serious mechanical or electrical malfunction is also possible. Modern thermostats are more complex; more sophisticated interfaces provide more functionality but increase the potential for component issues or software glitches.

8. Set and Actual Temperature Readings Don’t Match

Some thermostats display the actual and set temperatures (if yours doesn’t, use a thermometer to compare the reading to the room temperature). The two should match soon after the system turns on. If the readings never match or your home is too warm or too cool, contact a thermostat repair professional. They can check the unit and recommend whether to repair or replace the unit. 

9. Scheduled Settings Keep Getting Lost

A programmable thermostat should recall its temperature settings from day to day. They should stay programmed until you change them. If scheduled settings suddenly stop working, your thermostat may be malfunctioning.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Should a Thermostat Last?

The average lifespan of a thermostat is 10 years. Some can last longer than that. However, various factors can cause a thermostat to fail sooner, including power surges, increased wear, or corrosion. Old age is a common cause of thermostat failure. If the unit has reached the end of its life, the only option is to replace it.

Our tips for avoiding thermostat repair can save on costs throughout the unit’s lifespan and maintain optimal temperature control.

How Do I Troubleshoot My Thermostat?

Troubleshooting a thermostat is simple. If it isn’t working properly, try the following steps:

• Verify the unit is on the proper setting; if not, change and adjust the thermostat.
• Don’t only leave the thermostat “On”; the system will run continuously, so make sure to turn on the “Heat” or “Cool” setting.
• Turn the temperature up 5℉ in winter or down 5℉ in summer; air should start blowing from the vents.
• Change the batteries at least once a year; doing so in the spring can help you remember and prevent unexpected failures.
• Clean dust and debris from the thermostat; use a small brush and dry cloth and never get water under the cover.
• Schedule regular maintenance; a technician should test wiring connections to detect any problems early.

Is Thermostat Repair Expensive?

According to HomeAdvisor, thermostat repair can range from $50 to $500, while most people spend between $114 and $315. Pricing can vary depending on the model, what’s wrong with it, and whether it’s under warranty.

Call Trio Heating & Air Today

We provide thermostat repair and installation for homeowners throughout Santa Clara County and San Mateo County. Our technicians are trained to fix or replace all types of thermostats, including manual, programmable, and digital models. To request prompt thermostat, air conditioning, or heating services from Trio Heating & Air, book an appointment online or call (415) 223-5615 today.

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At TRIO, we’re committed to positively impacting our society every step of the way. Until now, we have relied on gas-powered vans for our technicians, but now TRIO is proud to be one of the leading HVAC companies with an entire fleet of Tesla vehicles, including the new Tesla Model 3 and Tesla Model X vehicles!⚡💯

Investing in an all-electric vehicle service fleet will allow us to align with our mission of positively impacting the environment, along with our mission to plant a tree for every job we complete. 💪

Insulation can keep your home comfortably cool in summer and warm in winter, but insulation installation services come at a cost. Many factors determine the expense. The insulation material, its location, and labor are just a few. However, the potential for energy savings can make the cost of insulating your home worthwhile.

Cost of Insulation Installation Services

According to Forbes, the average cost to install insulation in a 2,000-square-foot home is $3,000 to $10,000 (in 2024 dollars). Insulation generally costs $1.50 to $5.00 per square foot. If the project is done while your home is being built, the insulation installation cost is on the low end of the scale. 

That’s because the walls and ceilings of a home under construction aren’t finished. Insulating an existing home is more expensive because drywall and ceiling materials must be removed and repaired. Plus, old insulation must be removed, which can cost $1 to $3 per square foot. The size of the area to insulate is a major cost factor.

How the Cost of Insulation Can Pay for Itself

High-quality insulation can help lower your electricity bills. The difference in utility costs can make up for installation expenses, meaning you can recoup the cost over a few years. But exactly how much you save on energy depends on many variables. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), you can save an average of 15% on heating and cooling costs and 11% overall on energy costs with proper insulation and air sealing.

Factors that Determine the Cost of Insulation

When installing insulation in your home, its cost is determined by many variables. Here are some factors that a professional installer will consider when providing a price quote.

Insulating Material

A wide range of materials are used for residential insulation. Each has its advantages and disadvantages and is suited for use in specific areas or applications. The following are the most common materials, their cost per square foot, and uses plus their R-value (which reflects how well an insulator resists the movement of heat): 

• Fiberglass ($0.40 to $1.50): Fiberglass is among the most common materials used by insulation installation service companies. Available as batts, rolls, or loose-fill insulation, it’s a more affordable option and easy to install. The material is used during new construction and renovations. Batts and rolls have an R-value of about 2.5, depending on their thickness.
• Cellulose ($0.60 to $2.30): A loose-fill material, cellulose insulation is often blown into wall cavities. It’s sometimes available as a damp spray foam. Special equipment is needed to blow it into place, where the material settles and sticks together. Loose cellulose has an R-value of about 3.5 per inch of material.
• Polystyrene ($1.00 to $15.00): Polystyrene is available as foam board to cover a building exterior or can be placed under siding or roof shingles. Spray foam polystyrene can fill wall cavities or the space under attic floors. Extruded polystyrene tends to be more expensive than expanded polystyrene. Generally, polystyrene has an R-value of 3.2 to 3.8 per inch.
• Rockwool ($1.40 to $4): Spun into a fibrous material from recycled furnace slag, mineral wool insulation is more resistant to heat transfer than fiberglass. It contains a fair amount of silica, so safety precautions are required during installation. Rockwool has an R-value of about 3.4.
• Wood Fiber ($4.25 to $6.75): Wood fiber insulation consists of large, rigid boards. They are installed on flat surfaces to supplement existing insulation in ceilings or interior walls. The boards are made from recycled wood, so they are sustainable. An R-value of 3.8 makes wood fiber an efficient insulator that also dampens noise.
• Blue Jean Insulation ($1.50 to $1.75): Denim is an effective insulator and a great alternative to fiberglass batting. It’s also a safe DIY option, as it doesn’t have small glass particles. Made of recycled blue jeans, it can have an R-value of 5 or higher.

Type of Insulation

Aside from the material, the form of insulation affects its cost. The most common types of home insulation and their costs per square foot include the following:

• Batts and Rolls ($0.65 to $2.00): These are easy to install and fit between wall studs, rafters, and joists. They can be made of fiberglass, mineral wool, cotton, or plastic.
• Blown-In ($1.65 to $3.80): Blown-in insulation can be made of recycled cardboard, newspaper, fiberglass, or rock wool. A machine blows it into the space to be insulated, where it conforms to the area in which it’s applied.
• Foam Board ($2.40 to $3.75): Rigid foam board insulation is best for residential exterior applications. It’s most often used under siding but can also insulate basement floors. Accounting for thickness, it’s one of the most efficient insulators.
• Spray Foam ($3.15 to $7.50): Made of liquid polyurethane, this insulation is sprayed into wall cavities, where it expands and hardens into a solid foam. Closed-cell foam is thicker and more effective at trapping heat than open-cell foam (and more expensive). Both are well-suited for use in finished areas and hard-to-reach spaces.
• Radiant Barrier Insulation ($0.10 to $0.95): Radiant insulation reflects heat instead of absorbing it. This makes it suited for use as attic roof insulation. Although not the most expensive material, it can cost $30 to $80 per hour to install, according to Angi.

Location 

The cost of an insulation installation service also depends on the part of your home being insulated. A two-car garage, excluding the garage door, costs an average of $0.50 to $1.25 per square foot to insulate. Insulation is more often installed in a finished garage or if there’s a living space above it. Basements usually don’t require as much insulation and cost $1.50 to $2.50 per square foot to insulate. Wall insulation can cost from $1 to $4 per square foot.

However, other insulation installation projects require more extensive work. An attic, the most important area to insulate, needs twice as much insulation to counter the effects of rising heat. The average cost of an attic insulation installation service is $1,500 to $6,000. If you’re converting your attic into a living space, you may also want to insulate the roof, which costs $1,500 to $4,500.

Labor

The cost of labor depends on the insulation type, the equipment used, and the installation method. An installer also factors in the accessibility of areas to insulate. Labor is usually costlier with spray foam, which requires special equipment and protective gear. The labor cost for insulating a home can add from $0.25 to $2.50 per square foot, or anywhere from $40 to $80 per hour.

Site Prep

Site prep can add hundreds of dollars to the cost of the project. An insulation installation service may also require drywall to be demolished and repaired. Other aspects of site prep may include the following:

• Cover windows, doors, surfaces, and valuables
• Removal of old, moldy insulation/mold abatement
• Discarding old insulation and debris
• Verify walls are properly framed and enclosed
• Inspect electrical wiring for installation or repair issues

Air Sealing

If your home isn’t air sealed, conditioned air will escape and no amount of insulation will maximize your HVAC system’s efficiency. Therefore, check to see if parts of your home need air sealing before adding insulation. This can cost as little as $0.30 to $0.50 per square foot for a vapor barrier, about $6 per linear foot for caulk, or $7 for a 10-foot roll of weatherstripping. Some forms of air sealing are simple and affordable but can significantly improve efficiency.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Know I Need New Insulation?

The signs you should consider replacing insulation in your home include the following:

• Uneven Temperatures: Gaps in insulation can mean heat is escaping (making a room colder) or getting through space so one area is warmer than another.
• Leaks/Condensation: Dripping water on a wall, water stains on walls or ceilings, or condensation on windows can mean moisture is seeping in due to poor insulation.
• High Energy Bills: If your utility costs have been increasing despite no change in energy usage, you may need new insulation to help your HVAC system run more efficiently.
• Drafts: Feeling drafts in parts of your home can mean that air is passing through gaps or missing insulation.
• Frozen Pipes: Poor insulation or a lack of insulation can leave parts of your home exposed to freezing temperatures, causing pipes to freeze and possibly burst.

What Are the Benefits of Insulation Installation Services?

Professional installation has many benefits. A qualified technician ensures the materials are properly installed and can take steps to avoid damage and protect your home. Improving home insulation can result in lower energy bills, more effective temperature control, and better soundproofing.

How Long Does It Take to Install Insulation?

An insulation installation service can take as little as two hours. However, larger projects can take as long as two days. Professional installers are equipped and trained to work more quickly than, for example, a DIYer or handyman.

How Long Can New Insulation Last?

Cellulose insulation is the least durable. It lasts 20 to 30 years but can start to deteriorate after about 15 years. Spray foam insulation lasts up to 30 years when installed under a roof deck; in most areas, it can last up to 80 years. However, fiberglass insulation can last up to 100 years but must be inspected every 15 to 20 years to ensure it’s code-compliant.

Do I Need a Professional to Install Insulation?

Certain types of insulation can be installed without a professional. For example, many homeowners can install batting and blown-in insulation (with the proper equipment and safety gear). However, foam board and spray insulation require professional expertise.

How much you can save is hard to estimate, as there are many cost factors. In many cases, it pays to hire a contractor; insulating a home can involve a lot of time and labor, especially if it requires access to hard-to-reach areas. Hiring a professional is often more convenient than paying for materials, tools, and equipment and doing your research and preparation. 

Contact Us for Insulation Installation Services

Trio Heating & Air installs home attic, crawl space, and other insulation per California’s latest requirements and recommendations. Our trained technicians also remove old, damaged insulation. They perform inspections as well to determine if your insulation needs to be replaced or if there’s any air leakage to fix. We’re committed to high-quality installation and meeting the highest standards of service. To request insulation installation services in Santa Clara County and San Mateo County, call (415) 223-1647 today.