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.
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:
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.
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.
Here are some simple tasks you can do to prevent a residential AC repair call for a frozen AC.
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.
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.
Some signs you have a refrigerant problem include:
If you notice any of these signs, call Trio today. We’ll schedule a service call to charge your refrigerant.
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Troubleshooting a thermostat is simple. If it isn’t working properly, try the following steps:
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.
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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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.
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.
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.
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.
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):
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:
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.
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 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:
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.
The signs you should consider replacing insulation in your home include the following:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Mistakes in AC repair and maintenance can damage the system in addition to normal wear and tear. One error or misjudgment can lead to costly problems or an early system replacement. Therefore, a qualified professional must handle any air conditioning repair (aside from changing the air filter or simple cleaning). Not calling for help when necessary, mishandling the system, or improperly maintaining it can lead to substantial damage.
Avoiding these common mistakes can protect your AC system and household budget:
Changing the filter regularly is the golden rule of air conditioner maintenance. Replacing it every three months or more frequently can prevent costly AC repairs. Set reminders to check the filter. If it becomes clogged with dirt, your entire HVAC system works harder to achieve the desired air temperature, increasing utility costs and straining already hard-working components.
As every AC professional agrees, replacing the air filter is the easiest and most important way to care for your air conditioner. However, the filter must be the right type and size for your system. Its length and width must fit the space exactly; for some units, the thickness of the filter must meet exact specifications. Otherwise, it may decrease performance or cause permanent damage.
No matter who services your air conditioner, the underlying problem must be properly identified before it’s repaired. Experienced professionals have the tools to diagnose a wide range of issues. For example, leak detectors can identify damage to a coil, while voltage testers can help find a faulty electrical component. Attempting repairs without a proper diagnosis can result in overlooking the root cause of the problem. Or, the repair may ultimately be ineffective. In either case, there’s a high risk of additional damage.
Loud noises don’t just happen normally as your AC is running. You or anyone servicing the unit must take these seriously. Unusual noises are a telltale sign of a problem. Ignoring them can allow an issue to escalate until there’s major damage, such as a failed blower or a burnt-out compressor. Safety hazards such as a refrigerant leak or a short circuit are also possible.
Therefore, call a local HVAC contractor if you hear the following from your AC:
Working with an AC’s electrical components requires extensive knowledge and training. Not every AC repair technician is equipped to handle electrical issues. Attempting an electrical repair without expertise is highly dangerous. Aside from the potential for a shock, burn, or electrocution, it also risks causing extensive damage to your air conditioning system. For example, a mistake fixing faulty wiring or a capacitor can trigger a surge that shorts out major components. It can also lead to an electrical fire.
Touching a live electrical part without protection, not turning off the system, or installing an electrical component incorrectly is bad enough. However, a far too common issue is cutting an electrical wire. This may seem appropriate if something isn’t working; just cut a wire, splice it back together, or replace it.
But it’s not this simple. Your AC system has many wires and connections. Whether you cut one during repairs or by accident while trimming hedges or mowing your lawn, the results can be bad. The effects can range from reduced cooling capacity to your AC being unable to turn on. Hiring a professional is the best way to avoid wiring mistakes. They can also install and wrap wires to ensure they’re stable, protected, and unlikely to be accidentally cut.
Every part installed or replaced in your AC is specific to the make and model. If the wrong part is installed, it may be incompatible with the system. Your AC may not work at all, be damaged in the process, or wear out at an increased rate. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for selecting parts and hire a professional familiar with your type of system. Some ACs may also require specific tools to complete certain repair tasks.
Some people cover their outdoor condenser unit to protect it and avoid repairs. However, this can have the opposite effect. Outdoor units are typically built to withstand extreme temperatures and inclement weather. Don’t cover the entire unit while it’s running. The covering can disrupt airflow, overworking the unit. Or, its materials may be sucked into the machine, so you may need a major AC repair before you know it.
Call a professional as soon as your AC:
Homeowners often wait too long once they notice these symptoms. But the longer you wait, the more damage can occur. Your safety may also be at risk. Therefore, call an HVAC technician as soon as possible to diagnose and resolve the issue before it gets worse.
An AC repair comes with many hazards. One reason to call a professional is that they know the risks and how to mitigate them. They wear protective gear such as gloves, goggles, and insulated shoes to protect themselves from harm. Other safety precautions include turning off the power while working on a system and following industry guidelines for handling, charging, and disposing of refrigerant.
Never attempt to fix your air conditioning system yourself. Other than changing filters and cleaning the outside of units, DIY repairs are far too risky. Aside from the safety hazards, there’s the chance of causing damage that requires expensive repairs. You’ll pay out-of-pocket for these if a DIY repair voids the warranty. Therefore, always call a licensed professional to diagnose and repair your AC System.
Another big AC repair mistake is neglecting to schedule regular maintenance. It can lead to reduced cooling performance, higher energy bills, and safety hazards. Basic professional maintenance tasks like cleaning coils, lubricating moving parts, tightening electrical connections, and measuring refrigerant levels can make a big difference. During annual maintenance, a technician can also make minor repairs to prevent larger problems that may shorten your air conditioner’s lifespan.
Trio Heating & Air provides top-notch HVAC services in the Greater San Francisco Bay Area. Committed to customer satisfaction, we provide any type of AC repair and ensure you have cool air during the warmer months. Our team gets the job done right, whether it involves a simple tune-up or replacing a major component. To schedule air conditioning services in your home, call (415) 223-1647 today.