​Implementing these tips will not only improve your air conditioner's efficiency but also help you save on energy costs. At Accurate Air & Heat, LLC, we're dedicated to assisting you with all your heating and cooling needs. For more helpful tips, check out our informative blogs. Our goal is to ensure your home is comfortable and energy efficiency.

Do you need help with ac maintenance or ac repair in Lake Charles La? Give our AC guys a call.

Air conditioning systems play a crucial role in maintaining indoor comfort, especially in regions with extreme weather conditions like Lake Charles. However, the lifespan of these systems is influenced by several hidden factors that are often overlooked. In this article, we will explore the lesser-known elements that impact the longevity of air conditioning systems in Lake Charles. By understanding these factors, homeowners can take proactive measures to extend the lifespan of their AC units, improve energy efficiency, and save on repair and replacement costs.

The Role of Maintenance in System Longevity:
Regular maintenance and inspections are essential for ensuring the longevity of air conditioning systems. Tasks such as filter replacement, coil cleaning, and lubrication help prevent debris buildup, maintain optimal airflow, and reduce strain on the system. Neglecting these maintenance activities can lead to decreased performance, increased energy consumption, and premature system failure.

Impact of Environmental Factors on System Lifespan:
The unique climate of Lake Charles can place additional stress on air conditioning systems. The high humidity, frequent temperature fluctuations, and exposure to salt air near the coast can contribute to accelerated wear and tear. It is crucial to consider these factors when selecting an AC system and to invest in units that are specifically designed to withstand the demands of the local climate.

Air Quality and its Influence on System Longevity:
Air quality has a significant impact on the lifespan of air conditioning systems. Pollutants, allergens, and dust accumulation can infiltrate the system, leading to clogged filters, reduced efficiency, and potential damage to sensitive components. Regular cleaning and filtration maintenance can help mitigate these issues and extend the life of the system.

The Role of Air Ducts in System Longevity:
Often overlooked, the condition of air ducts plays a vital role in the overall lifespan of air conditioning systems. Poorly designed or leaky ductwork can result in restricted airflow, forcing the system to work harder and leading to increased energy consumption. Additionally, ducts that are not properly sealed can allow contaminants to enter the system, further diminishing performance and longevity.

Electrical Factors and System Lifespan:
Stable electrical voltage, proper electrical connections, and adequate circuit protection are critical for the optimal functioning and longevity of air conditioning systems. Voltage fluctuations, loose connections, and inadequate circuit breakers can cause damage to the system's electrical components, leading to premature failure. It is important to ensure that the electrical system supporting the AC unit is in good condition and meets the manufacturer's specifications.

Discover Accurate and Dependable AC Repair In Lake Charles: Accurate Air LA:
In order to maximize the lifespan of your air conditioning system and address any issues that may arise, it is crucial to rely on professional AC repair services. Accurate Air LA is a trusted and reliable air conditioning repair company in Lake Charles. With their expertise and experience, they can help homeowners maintain their AC systems, identify potential problems, and provide timely repairs to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Understanding the hidden factors that impact the lifespan of air conditioning systems in Lake Charles is essential for homeowners seeking to maximize efficiency, reduce energy costs, and avoid premature system failure. By prioritizing regular maintenance, considering environmental factors, addressing air quality concerns, maintaining air ducts, and ensuring proper electrical connections, homeowners can extend the life of their AC systems and enjoy the comfort they provide for years to come. For the best AC repair services in Lake Charles, Accurate Air LA is ready to provide expert assistance and support.

​​In Vinton LA, battling humidity and enduring scorching heat for nine months a year makes having a functioning air conditioning system an absolute necessity rather than a luxury. That's why it's crucial to have a reliable HVAC company you can trust when you require AC repair. At Accurate Air & Heating, we are fully prepared to handle all your HVAC service and repair needs, as well as provide maintenance and installation services.

​Ensuring the comfort of our friends in Vinton La within their homes is our expertise! Whether you're experiencing strange noises or a declining compressor, Accurate Air possesses the knowledge to effectively repair your AC and mini-split units. Moreover, when the time comes, we can assist you in making an informed decision about replacing your HVAC or Ductless Mini Split system. Although the name Accurate Air and Heat may sound new, our commitment to serving the Vinton community is not. We have been repairing and replacing air conditioning and heating systems in SWLA for nearly 15 years. Our team has extensive experience repairing and servicing almost every residential and light commercial AC system available on the market.

​Our mission revolves around delivering exceptional service, accurate diagnostics, and honest HVAC solutions to the community we proudly serve.

Although Vinton winters are typically mild, it's not uncommon to experience a few months with temperatures dropping below 40°. When our homes need heat, we expect our heaters to perform flawlessly. However, after being idle for 10 months or more, our HVAC units can stumble when we start them up. If your HVAC system fails to provide the desired heating temperatures, don't hesitate to call Accurate Air & Heating. Our experienced technicians will inspect your equipment and perform same-day repairs if necessary. With 15 years of experience in heater repair in Vinton LA, we have the expertise to diagnose and fix the issue promptly.

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Living in Louisiana, where the summers can be scorching hot, having a properly functioning air conditioning (AC) system is essential for maintaining a comfortable indoor environment. Timely air conditioning repair is crucial to prevent major breakdowns, ensure optimal cooling efficiency, and prolong the lifespan of your AC unit. This article will provide you with the top tips for maintaining and repairing your air conditioning system in LA.

Schedule Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is vital for the smooth operation of your air conditioning unit. Manufacturers recommend a professional HVAC technician inspect and service your AC system at least once a year. During these maintenance visits, the technician will perform thorough inspections, clean the system, and conduct any necessary tune-ups. This proactive approach helps identify and address minor issues before they escalate into major problems, saving you time, money, and discomfort in the long run.

Monitor Performance and Efficiency
Keep a close eye on the performance and efficiency of your air conditioning system. Look out for signs that may indicate potential AC problems, such as reduced cooling performance, uneven cooling, strange noises, or a sudden increase in energy bills. If you notice any of these signs, it is important to act promptly and contact a licensed HVAC technician to identify and repair the issue before it escalates.

Change Air Filters Regularly
Clean air filters are crucial for optimal AC performance. Over time, air filters accumulate dust, dirt, and debris, obstructing airflow and reducing cooling efficiency. It is recommended to replace air filters every one to three months, depending on factors such as the type of filter and the level of indoor air pollution. Regularly changing the air filters not only helps improve cooling efficiency but also enhances indoor air quality by trapping allergens and pollutants.

Keep the Outdoor Unit Clean
The outdoor part of your air conditioning system needs regular cleaning to ensure proper airflow and efficient operation. Make sure to remove any dirt, leaves, and debris that may accumulate on and around the unit. Use a gentle stream of water to rinse off the dirt and debris, taking care not to damage any delicate components. Clearing the area around the outdoor unit of any obstructions, such as vegetation or clutter, also helps maintain its performance.

Address Minor Issues Promptly
Even seemingly minor AC issues should not be ignored, as they can worsen over time and lead to more significant problems. If you notice unusual sounds, strange odors, or any other abnormal behavior from your air conditioning system, it is best to contact an HVAC professional promptly. Timely repairs can prevent further damage and ensure your AC unit operates efficiently, keeping you cool and comfortable during the hot Louisiana summers.

Be Mindful of Energy Consumption
Energy consumption and AC performance go hand in hand. By being mindful of your energy usage, you'll not only save on utility bills but also prolong the lifespan of your air conditioning system. Consider using programmable thermostats to adjust temperature settings based on your schedule, avoiding unnecessary cooling when you're away from home. Additionally, ensuring proper insulation, sealing any air leaks, and using ceiling fans can help reduce the workload on your AC unit.

Get Reliable Air Conditioning Repair in Lake Charles LA with Accurate Air & Heat
To ensure timely and efficient air conditioning repair in LA, it is crucial to work with a reliable HVAC service provider. Accurate Air LA is a trusted name in the industry, offering professional air conditioning repair, maintenance, and installation services. Their team of experienced technicians can handle all your AC needs, providing prompt and reliable solutions to keep your system running smoothly.

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Is your air conditioner acting up? Don't sweat it! Our expert technicians at Accurate Air & Heat are here to provide reliable AC repair solutions that will bring back the cool comfort to your home or office. We specialize in diagnosing and fixing AC issues promptly, ensuring your system operates efficiently.

 Skilled Technicians: Our team of skilled technicians is trained to handle various AC repair needs, from minor glitches to complex problems. Trust us to deliver top-notch service with precision and expertise.

Swift Response: We understand the urgency of a malfunctioning AC unit. That's why we offer swift response times, getting to you quickly to assess and resolve the issue, so you can enjoy a comfortable indoor environment again.

Lasting Solutions: We believe in providing lasting solutions that stand the test of time. Our AC repair services are aimed at not just fixing the problem but ensuring optimal performance and longevity for your cooling system.

Don't let a faulty AC spoil your comfort. Contact us today for reliable AC repair service!

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​In Lake Charles, we depend on our HVAC systems year-round, particularly during the summer months, which may lead many to believe that winter maintenance is not especially necessary. We’ve answered a few common questions below, and listed a few things to consider before passing on your winter HVAC maintenance.

What Is a Furnace Tune-Up?
Much like having your vehicle serviced regularly keeps it running smoothly, maintaining your heater in the winter ensures it will perform when you need it. In addition, winter maintenance prepares your heating system for use; it allows your technician to clean dust and debris from the unit, inspect it for wear on parts, perform efficiency adjustments, and when necessary, make minor routine repairs.

Your HVAC system is comprised of many moving parts that help deliver warm air throughout your home, and over time those parts can wear out. Inspecting and making minor repairs before they have a chance to fail can save time, money, and the comfort of your home at the height of winter. 

During your routine maintenance call you can share concerns and ask questions about your heating system. For example, are there cold or hot zones in your home during the winter months? Have you heard unusual noises or had trouble starting your unit? Perhaps you are concerned with the age of your heating system; our experienced team members can answer your questions and offer solutions. Many clients are surprised by the simple solutions a trained eye can spot: such as adjusting the air vent to reduce heat in one room, while pushing it to anther.   


Benefits of A Furnace Tune-Up
Efficiency equals Less Expense – When your heating system is adjusted for efficiency, it delivers warm air throughout your home using less energy; this, in turn, decreases energy consumption, thereby decreasing your utility bill.

• Fewer Repairs and Interruptions: Often, our technicians discover routine repairs before they become significant problems.
• Extends the Useful Life of Your System – HVAC systems that are regularly maintained last longer than those that don’t; it’s that simple.  

An HVAC Company You Can Trust…
Accurate Air and Heat has been maintaining, repairing, and replacing HVAC systems for nearly 15 years; during that time, we have worked on nearly every residential and light commercial HVAC brand on the market. When you are ready to have your heating system serviced, give us a call. While our name may seem new, our service is not. Lake Charles, Louisiana, is where we live, work, and play.

​Working around electrical energy and the HVAC’s moving parts is inherently dangerous, so it is paramount that power to the unit is completely shut off before maintenance. You should find a shut off box close to the exterior HVAC unit, and then shut off power to the unit on the interior breaker box.

​You will need a wrench or screwdriver to remove the HVAC exterior cage away from the system to remove debris that has worked its way in. Use a shop vac to remove leaves and additional debris from the interior of the unit.

​Dirt, lint, scale, biofilms, and oxidation accumulation need to be removed. Using a powerful shop vac with a brush attachment clean the interior of the unit. After cleaning with a shop vac, use a water hose (not a pressure washer, as it could damage the blades) to spray the fins from the inside out to remove debris that has built up between blades. A commercial cleaning spray may be necessary if the fins are extremely dirty.

The pad of your HVAC unit can become unlevel as soil settles or erodes. When this happens you can use a shim to bring the unit level. If you are using a heat pump system, a slight slope for winter run off is perfectly acceptable. Just ensure the slope stays consistent. ​

Air inside your home blows through the evaporator coil, the cool coil absorbs heat from the air (cooling it), then circulates it back into your home. The humidity in your home condenses on the cool evaporator coil and drips into the pan below. The pan drains to a tube that is routed out of your home. This tube slowly accrues algae and mold that has the potential to clog the drain. Many HVAC systems come equipped with a drain float that will stop your system from cooling to prevent flooding.  

To clean your drain line, find the line where it exits the evaporator enclosure. It is usually a visible 1-inch PVC pipe. Typically the pipe runs to the outside near the condenser unit, but can also run to a utility sin or floor drain. Attic units usually run down an exterior wall.​

​​Start by removing wet vac filter, then place the hose of the wet vac over the exterior drain line. Use a hand towel or duct tape to cause a seal around the drain line and shop vac hose, and allow the the shop vac to run for a few minutes before turning the vacuum off. This should clean your drain of algae and other biological concerns

Your HVAC filter should be replaced at minimum of twice a year but check it regularly to ensure optimal efficiency and prevent circulation of air born allergens. Homeowners with pets may need to change it more frequently. In addition, if you are remodeling your home air born particle from drywall or sanding will require frequent monitoring for air filter replacement as particle will clog your filter and reduce airflow to your system.  ​

While the task listed above will extend the life of your unit and keep it running at optimal efficiency, there are maintenance task only a licensed HVAC technician can perform. Refrigerant leaks can lead to compressor failure that require tools and the skills of a professional. In addition, clean ducts and proper airflow are crucial to a well-operating system. While these tips can help you maintain your HVAC system, having an experience contractor service your system twice a year can help avoid HVAC system failure and costly repair. HVAC technicians are specially trained to spot impending problems before they become expensive repairs and make efficiency adjustments with trade specific tools.  

If the AC Maintenance tasks mentioned above are above your skill or comfort level, call the Lake Charles AC Repair Guys at Accurate Air and Heat.  Accurate Air maintenance visits are cost effective solutions to reducing your utility bills and optimizing your HVAC system for efficiency.

If you need a new air conditioning unit, there are a few numbers and acronyms you will want to become familiar with. We commonly come across the question, “what is a SEER rating,” and is it important. 

When your AC has met the end of its useful life, you will probably need to bone up on Department of Energy minimum efficiency requirements to understand shopping and comparing new HVAC units.    

HVAC systems are big-ticket items, so you are smart to investigate pertinent ratings before investing in a new air conditioning unit.  

SEER is an acronym for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio and concerns how much energy an HVAC system uses over the course of a year. The DOE, US Dept. of Energy, has set a minimum efficiency rating for all new HVAC systems installed in the US by zone. 

SEER is the measurement used to determine that efficiency. The higher the SEER number, the more efficient the unit should be, and theoretically, how much you can save on your utility bills. 

The SEER rating range is typically somewhere between 14 (the DOE minimum requirement for Louisiana in 2022) and 27, so any new HVAC system you purchase will probably have a higher efficiency rating than the 15+-year-old unit you are replacing. In addition, the SEER rating also allows homeowners to compare one HVAC system against others. 

SEER in practical terms – The amount you can save on utility bills varies greatly and is dependent on the size of your home or business, how well your structure is insulated, how much you pay per kilowatt-hour, your replacement unit SEER rating, and your current utility bills.

Savings can be estimated using a SEER calculator (free tools are available online), or by downloading the SEER spreadsheet calculator from Energy.gov.

Determining a SEER Rating
The SEER rating is determined by calculating an HVAC unit’s average performance over the course of a year, including, the amount of cooling and heating your system contributes per units of energy used. Still, it boils down to the less energy used to cool or heat your home, the higher the SEER rating will be.

Step 1
Locate the BTUs (British Thermal Unit) of your HVAC, typically found on the air conditioning unit or in the owner’s manual. 

Step 2
Locate the watts per hour used for your HVAC system, also found either on the unit or in the owner’s manual.  

Step 3
Now calculate the BTUs used over the course of the year, for example purposes let’s just round it to 1,000 hours. Now multiply the BTUs from step one by 1,000 to get the number of BTUs used over the course of a year.  

Step 4
Now calculate the number of watts per hours used over the course of a year by multiplying watts per hours from step 2 by 1,000.

Step 5
Now divide the BTUs used (derived from step 3) by the number of watts-hours consumed (derived from step 4) to arrive at the SEER rating.

​Higher efficiency usually comes at a higher price. The technology that goes into producing higher SEER ratings increases the cost of the unit; you will want to weigh the upfront cost-to-advantage ratio when choosing a new ac unit, a professional HVAC contractor’s experience and knowledge can be valuable when making this decision.   If you have your sights set on a specific brand, don’t worry, most manufacturers have a range of systems with minimum to high-efficiency options available to meet their client's needs and budget. 

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The acronym HVAC  is an abbreviation for Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning refers to the cooling and heating systems used in homes and commercial properties to keep residents comfortable. The task of an HVAC system is to circulate filtered cool or warm air through a structure. Virtually every home in Southwest Louisiana has an HVAC system installed.

An HVAC contractor is a person, or company, tasked with repairing, maintaining, and installing Air Conditioning, Heating and Ventilation systems. ​

HVAC owners typically call air conditioning contractors in Lake Charles La when their AC, heat pump or furnace fails to provide the level of comfort they desire. Additionally, HVAC professionals are called on to perform bi-annual HVAC maintenance services to extend the life of the AC. When the need arises, HVAC contractors are who you call to purchase and install a new HVAC unit or for emergency repair service. ​

Routine maintenance – is generally the starting segment for new HVAC technicians; furnace/heat pump and air conditioning repair require additional experience and training to accurately diagnose repair issues, while HVAC installation requires the highest level of expertise and skill.

In addition to the service segments listed above, HVAC contractors consult with home and business owners on energy efficiency and ways to reduce their utility costs. The advice can range from properly sealing drafty windows and doors to adding insulation around the air ducts.

Many HVAC contractors offer air quality control consultations. With an array of devices on the market that can improve indoor air quality, a consultation with a knowledgeable technician can save time and money on items like whole-home dehumidifiers, disinfecting light systems, electronic air cleaners, duct cleaning, and repair or replacement of your thermostats.  

Some HVAC systems require specialized repair equipment. For example, water-based heating and boilers systems require specific training and skillset from forced-air systems. Additionally, solar heating is another niche system that requires a specialist.​

MAINNTENANCE – A new homeowner may be surprised to learn that their HVAC System requires regular maintenance. During a maintenance call, the technician will check tubes and pipes for leaks, refill refrigerants to proper levels, test thermostats, test circuits, inspect motors and fans, clean the outdoor unit, change air filters, and look for impediments to optimal efficiency.

REPAIRS – When your HVAC system is maintained regularly, it allows your technician to identify impending repairs, helping to avoid emergency service. HVAC Repair Service generally requires repairing or installing fatigued parts of your AC system. Repair service is the bulk of a contractors work during summer and winter months.  

INSTALLATION – When an HVAC system has reached the end of its useful life, a contractor is tasked with replacing it with a new unit. Replacement requires careful inspection of the existing system to ensure the replacement unit is the correct size and capacity for the home, followed by carefully replacement the existing unit, with minimal impact to the comfort of the occupants. Installation can include installing or replacing ductwork, pipes, wiring, tubing, and electrical supply lines and testing the unit after installation.  

The work of an HVAC contractor can be complex and varies substantially from one home to another as there are nearly as many HVAC manufacturers are there are automobile manufacturers. Installation of a new system can be as simple as replacing the old system with a similar capacity system, or it could require updated electrical and ductwork (depending on the age of the home or structure).

If your home cooling and heating system is failing to provide the comfort you are accustomed to, it’s time to call an HVAC professional. In addition, you should consider calling if you experience: 

• Unexplained Increase in Utility Bills (Gas and Electricity)
• Inconsistent Temperatures Throughout Your Home or Business
• Your System Never Stops Running
• Unfamiliar Sounds or Smells

Consider scheduling a maintenance appointment and allow an experienced HVAC contractor in Lake Charles La to perform routine service. During the service call, your technician will alert you to an impending repair need. The sooner you schedule an HVAC maintenance appointment, the better. During summer months, most HVAC contractors stay booked with emergency service calls.