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Why Is My AC Not Turning On? Common Causes and What You Can Do
Why Is My AC Not Turning On? Common Causes and What You Can Do We get the call all the time—“My AC is not turning on. What do I do?” It’s frustrating, especially when the temperature is rising and you’re stuck without cool air. Luckily, there are a few things you can check before calling in the pros, and understanding the cause can save you time and money. At Precision Air Heating & Cooling, we always try to repair when possible—but we also don’t want you putting money into a system that’s past its useful life or ignoring a symptom of a bigger issue. Top Reasons Your AC Won’t Turn On (And How to Troubleshoot Them) 1. Check Your Thermostat It might seem simple, but make sure your thermostat is: Set to “Cool” The temperature is set below the current room temperature Batteries are working (for battery-powered thermostats) If it’s a programmable thermostat, a glitch or dead batteries can easily throw things off. 2. Tripped Breaker One of the most common DIY fixes when your AC is not turning on is a tripped breaker. Head to your electrical panel and look for the breaker labeled “AC” or “Air Conditioner.” If it’s flipped, reset it once. If it keeps tripping repeatedly, that’s a sign of a bigger electrical issue—don’t keep resetting it. 3. Clogged Drain Pan or Water Overflow Switch Many systems have a safety switch that turns the system off when water builds up in the drain pan. This can happen due to a clogged condensate drain line. If you see standing water under your indoor unit, the system is trying to protect itself. But water buildup can also be a sign of a frozen evaporator coil, often caused by: Low refrigerant Poor airflow Dirty filters 4. Blown Fuse or Capacitor Your outside unit (the condenser) needs a working capacitor to power the compressor and fan motor. A blown capacitor or fuse inside the disconnect box can stop your system from starting. This is something a trained tech should diagnose and replace. 5. Wiring or Contactor Issues If your thermostat is calling for cooling but nothing is happening, the low-voltage wiring or the contactor in the outdoor unit might have failed. Over time, components wear down, and critters can even chew on wires. We also have issues in our area with rodents eating internal wires. 6. Dirty Air Filter This one’s easy. A clogged filter restricts airflow and can cause your system to shut down to prevent damage. Try replacing the filter—your system may thank you. When to Call Precision Air Heating & Cooling If your AC is not turning on and you’ve already checked your breaker, thermostat, and air filter, it’s time to call in the professionals. From frozen coils to bad capacitors, we can diagnose the issue quickly and get you back up and running. We’ll always explain the problem clearly, show you photos or videos of what we find, and give you honest options. Whether it’s a simple repair or a system that’s reached the end of the road, we’ve got your back. Call Precision Air Heating & Cooling today—we’re here to help when your AC won’t turn on, and we’ll make sure you don’t sweat the fix. Contact Us | Request Estimate | Maintenance Plans
Searching for the Best HVAC Company Near Me
Searching for the Best HVAC Company Near Me When it’s time to service, repair, or replace your heating and cooling system, it’s natural to start with a Google search for the Best HVAC company near me. But once you see dozens of options pop up, how do you know which one is truly the best fit? How to Find the Best HVAC Company Near You Choosing the right HVAC contractor isn’t about picking the first result—it’s about digging into the details to find a company you can count on. Here’s what to look for: Check Online Reviews And Ratings Start by looking closely at the reviews. A real best HVAC company near me will not only have a high star rating but will also have a lot of reviews to back it up. Look for keywords like: Honesty Professionalism Quality service Reviews that call out employees by name are a great sign—it shows that customers had memorable, personal experiences with their techs. Choose a Locally Owned HVAC Business Next, dig a little deeper. Is the company locally owned and operated? Many large HVAC brands you recognize are actually owned by private equity firms. When you’re just another number on a spreadsheet, personalized service can go out the window. Choosing a locally owned business often means your satisfaction matters much more to them. Look for Neighborhood Recommendations Another tip when searching for the best HVAC company near me is to look for reviews from people you know in your community. Personal recommendations carry a lot of weight. Call Before You Commit Finally, don’t be afraid to pick up the phone. Call a couple of companies you’re considering. The way their customer service team handles your call is often a good preview of how they’ll treat you as a customer down the road. Precision Air- Your Local HVAC Company! Finding the best HVAC company near me isn’t just about the first name you see online—it’s about doing a little homework so you can find a team you trust for years to come. If you’re in Southeastern Pennsylvania, look no further than Precision Air Heating & Cooling. As a locally owned and operated company based in West Chester, PA, we’ve been delivering honest, expert service for over 30 years. Whether it’s HVAC maintenance, repairs, or a brand-new installation, we’re your neighborhood team for reliable comfort. Schedule your service today—we’re just around the corner! Contact Us | Request Estimate | Maintenance Plans
AC Repair vs. Replace: How to Make the Right Call
AC Repair vs. Replace: How to Make the Right Call One of the most common questions we get is, “Should I repair or replace my AC?” The answer really comes down to the age of the system, the cost of the repair, and the overall condition of the unit. At Precision Air, our focus is always on AC repair when it makes sense. If we can keep your system running reliably without wasting your money, that’s exactly what we’re going to do. But we also don’t want anyone investing in something that’s past its prime. That’s where experience, honesty, and a little bit of guidance come in. Think of Your AC Like a Car If your car has 200,000 miles on it and the engine blows, is it worth the cost of replacing the engine, or is it time for a new ride? 12 Years Or 10 Years? The same idea applies to your air conditioner. Once a system is 12 years or older, we consider it near or beyond its useful life. At that point, unless the repair is minor, it’s usually smarter to replace the system entirely. Spending money on an old AC often leads to more issues down the road. You fix one part, and another one goes. It becomes a cycle of frustration and wasted money. On the flip side, if your AC is less than 10 years old, it’s probably still under the manufacturer’s parts warranty. In that case, AC repair is almost always the better move, especially if the system has been well-maintained. The 25% Rule Here’s a general rule we use: If the cost of the AC repair is more than 25% of the cost of a new system, and your unit is 10 years or older, replacing it is usually the better long-term decision. When to Use the 25% Rule? Let’s say you’re facing a $2,000 repair. If a new system costs $8,000, you’re at that 25% threshold. If your system is over a decade old, that’s a red flag. Even with the repair, you’re still left with an aging unit that could have other issues soon. And remember, newer systems are more efficient, so you’ll save money on energy bills too. Bottom Line We never push replacements just to make a sale. Our philosophy at Precision Air is to extend the life of your HVAC system when it’s the right choice. If the system is in good shape and not too old, and the repair makes sense financially, we’re all for fixing it. But we’ll also give you straight answers if it’s time to move on. No one wants to make a decision they regret—especially when it involves comfort and money. That’s why we take the time to explain your options and help you make the smart call. Precision Air – Your One-Stop Solution for AC Repair and Replacement Need an expert opinion? Give us a call! We’re here to help you figure out whether an AC repair or replacement is the right move for your home. Contact Us | Request Estimate | Maintenance Plans
Why Is My Air Conditioner Making Strange Noises?
Why Is My Air Conditioner Making Strange Noises? Is your AC making strange noises this spring? Don’t ignore it—those odd sounds could be an early warning sign that something’s wrong with your system. At Precision Air Heating & Cooling, we often get this question from homeowners in West Chester and surrounding areas: “Why is my air conditioner so loud all of a sudden?” So, let’s break down the most common reasons behind these noises—before they turn into costly repairs. Common AC Noises and What They Mean Strange noises coming from your air conditioner—whether from the outdoor unit or inside your home—are often a sign that something isn’t quite right. Here are some of the most common causes: Outdoor Unit Noises Buzzing or Humming: This could indicate electrical issues, a failing capacitor, or loose parts. Rattling: Often caused by debris like sticks or rocks inside the unit or a loose fan blade. Screeching or Grinding: Worn-out bearings or motor issues could be to blame. Indoor Unit Noises Whistling: This might mean there’s a clogged air filter or a ductwork leak. Banging or Clanking: Loose components in the blower assembly or a broken part. Clicking: Relay problems or failing control boards can cause repetitive clicking. Ignoring these sounds can lead to bigger—and more expensive—problems down the road. Let Precision Air Heating and Cooling help! Don’t let strange AC noises disrupt your peace or lead to expensive AC repairs. At Precision Air Heating & Cooling, we bring over 30 years of hands-on experience to every job. Our highly trained technicians specialize in diagnosing and repairing noisy air conditioning systems—fast. Whether it’s a buzzing outdoor unit or a banging sound from your vents, we’ll pinpoint the problem and get your system back to running quietly and efficiently! Contact Us | Request Estimate | Maintenance Plans
Should I Lower My Thermostat At Night?
Should I Lower My Thermostat At Night? Thinking about dropping the thermostat at night to save a few bucks? You’re not alone—it sounds like a smart move. But if you’re using a heat pump, that habit might actually cost you more. Big temperature swings can push your system into overdrive, forcing it to rely on backup heat (the expensive kind) and putting extra strain on your equipment. Let’s break down why steady is better for your thermostat—and how to keep things cozy without wasting energy. Why Lowering Your Thermostat at Night Isn’t Always Best Adjusting your thermostat drastically between day and night might seem like a smart way to save energy, but it often ends up costing you more—especially if you have a heat pump. It’s similar to driving your car: if you’re constantly slamming on the gas and hitting the brakes, your fuel efficiency takes a nosedive, and your car parts wear out faster. Your HVAC system works in the same way—big temperature changes force it to work overtime, burning more energy and wearing out components. How Heat Pumps Respond to Temperature Changes With heat pumps, this is an even bigger deal. Heat pumps don’t create heat; they transfer it and are most efficient when maintaining a steady temperature. Making large adjustments can cause the system to rely on its backup heat (often less efficient electric resistance heat), which drives up your energy bills. It’s like driving on a flat road versus one with steep hills—keeping things steady uses far less energy. What’s the Most Efficient Thermostat Setting for a Heat Pump? For standard heat pumps, try to limit temperature changes to 1–2°F or, better yet, leave the thermostat in a consistent setting. Advanced models like two-stage or inverter heat pumps perform like a hybrid car in cruise control, adjusting smoothly to your home’s needs. But even these systems work best when you leave them at a set temperature. Optimize Your Comfort with Precision Air In short, treat your heat pump like a finely tuned car: avoid sudden starts and stops, keep things steady, and enjoy the benefits of efficiency, comfort, and lower energy costs! Need help optimizing your system? Contact Precision Air Heating & Cooling—your local experts in West Chester and Southeastern PA—for professional advice, maintenance, and energy-saving thermostat upgrades that keep your home running smoothly year-round. Contact Us | Request Estimate
What Is a Wi-Fi Thermostat? Benefits for Comfort, Control & Energy Savings
What Is a Wi-Fi Thermostat? Benefits for Comfort, Control & Energy Savings Did you too, like many others, assume that Wi-Fi thermostats are just useful when you’re coming home from vacation? Well, a Wi-Fi thermostat is so much more than that. In this blog, we’ll break down exactly how it works, the surprising ways it can improve your comfort, and why it’s one of the smartest HVAC upgrades you can make for your home. Understanding A Wi-Fi Thermostat A Wi-Fi thermostat is more than just a way to adjust the temperature from your phone—it’s like upgrading from a basic flip phone to a smartphone. These smart thermostats are designed to make your life easier, more comfortable, and more efficient. For instance, they don’t just control your home’s temperature; they connect to the internet to access outside weather conditions and future forecasts. Think about how your smartphone gives you live traffic updates or weather alerts—your thermostat can use that same technology to adjust your system for maximum comfort and energy savings. Key Benefits of a Wi-Fi Thermostat Remote temperature control from anywhere Automatic adjustments based on weather or occupancy Energy savings through smarter scheduling Alerts and notifications about system issues Integration with smart home devices Why is a Wi-Fi Thermostat a Smart Investment? Imagine this: you’re on vacation, and your furnace starts acting up. A Wi-Fi thermostat can notify you about the problem before you walk through the door, potentially saving you from a big repair bill. Or Picture a cold winter night when you’re driving home—you can use your phone to warm the house so it’s cozy when you arrive. It’s this kind of convenience and control that makes a big difference in your day-to-day life. That’s why at Precision Air Heating & Cooling, we include Wi-Fi thermostats in almost all of our installs of heating and cooling units—they’re not just a luxury but a smart way to keep your home comfortable and efficient. Upgrade Your Comfort with Precision Air Heating & Cooling Looking to get more out of your HVAC system? Our experts offer Wi-Fi thermostat installation in West Chester and surrounding Southeastern PA areas. Let us help you boost comfort, cut energy waste, and take full control of your indoor climate—all from the palm of your hand! Contact Us | Request Estimate
What Is a Dual Fuel Heating System & How Does It Help?
What Is a Dual Fuel Heating System & How Does It Help? Do you heat your home with propane and wonder if there’s a smarter, more efficient way to stay warm? You’re not alone—and I’ve been there too. In this article, I’m sharing my personal experience with a dual fuel heating system, the setup I use in my own home! How Dual Fuel Heating Systems Work with a Heat Pump & Furnace A dual fuel system is a smart choice for the Northeast because it combines the best of two heating systems: a heat pump and a furnace! Think of it like dressing for the weather. On a mild winter day, you might just need a light jacket because it’s comfortable enough outside. That’s how a heat pump works—it uses the warmth already in the air to heat your home efficiently. But when it’s freezing cold, like during a big snowstorm, that jacket isn’t enough, and you need a heavy winter coat. That’s where the furnace comes in, kicking on when the heat pump can’t handle the extreme cold. Cost & Energy Efficiency Benefits This system saves money because it uses the heat pump, which is much cheaper to run, most of the time. For example, it’s like driving a fuel-efficient hybrid car around town but switching to a truck for heavy snow or tough terrain. The Catch: The furnace only runs when necessary, making sure your home stays warm without wasting energy. Why It’s Ideal for the Northeast Climate Since the Northeast has a mix of milder winter days and bone-chilling cold spells, a dual fuel system automatically adjusts to the conditions, giving you the perfect balance of efficiency and reliability. Ready to Upgrade Your Heating Setup? If you’re looking for a smarter way to heat your home, especially if you rely on propane, a dual fuel system could be the perfect solution. It gives you the comfort of a heat pump on mild days and the reliability of a furnace when the cold really hits. At Precision Air Heating & Cooling, we specialize in heat pump and furnace installations for homeowners in West Chester and across Southeastern PA. Our team is here to help you design a system that’s efficient, cost-effective, and built for the way you live! Contact Us | Request Estimate
What Is An Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV) and Why Your Home Needs One
What Is An Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV) and Why Your Home Needs One If your home always feels stuffy—no matter how much you clean or run the AC—you’re not imagining it. Modern homes are sealed tight for energy savings, trapping stale air inside. That’s where an Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV) comes in. It’s a smart, energy-efficient way to bring in fresh air without wasting money. Understanding An Energy Recovery Ventilator An Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV) is like the lungs of your home or office, breathing in fresh, clean air while expelling stale, polluted air. Think of it like your car’s air conditioning system—when you recirculate the air, it gets stuffy and uncomfortable, but when you crack the windows just a little, it feels fresher. The difference with an ERV is that it exchanges air while also recovering energy, so you don’t lose the heating or cooling you’ve paid for. Why You Need An ERV Installation In Your Home Modern homes are built tighter than ever to save on energy, like a sealed thermos that keeps your drink hot or cold. This efficiency, while great for your wallet, can trap pollutants inside—like cooking fumes, cleaning chemicals, pet dander, and even carbon dioxide from our breathing. Over time, these build-ups can lead to poor indoor air quality, sometimes referred to as “sick home syndrome.” This can cause symptoms like headaches, fatigue, and even respiratory issues, much like the stale air you’d notice in a stuffy, closed car. However, an ERV fixes this by pulling in fresh outdoor air while pushing out stale indoor air. At the same time, it transfers heat or coolness from the outgoing air to the incoming air, so your HVAC system doesn’t have to work overtime. This means your air stays fresh and your energy bills stay low. Benefits Of An ERV Installation Cleaner Indoor Air Fresh outdoor air replaces stale, polluted indoor air, removing allergens, pet dander, VOCs, and other airborne irritants. Better for Families and Kids Especially helpful in homes with children or individuals with asthma and allergies, ERVs reduce irritants and maintain balanced humidity. Lower Utility Bills By recovering heat or coolness from outgoing air, your HVAC system doesn’t have to work as hard—saving you energy and money. Humidity Control ERVs help manage excess humidity, reducing the risk of mold growth and keeping your air more comfortable. Reduced “Sick Home Syndrome” Symptoms Fewer headaches, fatigue, and respiratory issues, thanks to improved air circulation and filtration. Increased HVAC Efficiency and Lifespan You’ll get better performance and fewer repairs with less strain on your HVAC system. Let Precision Air Help You Breathe Better Year-Round Having an ERV is like having a smart ventilation system that keeps your home healthy and comfortable while saving energy. It’s an upgrade you’ll feel every day—like cracking the windows on a spring day without letting your heating or cooling escape. Ready to breathe easier? Precision Air Heating & Cooling is here to help with expert ERV installation and indoor air quality solutions. We’ll guide you in choosing the right system to keep your home fresh, energy-efficient, and comfortable all year long. Contact Us | Request Estimate
At What Temperature Do Heat Pumps Become Ineffective?
Heat pumps have become a favorite choice among homeowners seeking efficient heating and cooling solutions. Unlike traditional systems that rely on burning fuel or consuming lots of electricity, heat pumps move heat for incredibly efficient performance, especially in moderate weather. But no system is perfect. One common question we hear is how cold is too cold for a heat pump to work effectively? If you’re considering a heat pump or just curious about how they hold up in Pennsylvania’s climate, here’s everything you need to make an informed decision. How Heat Pumps Work Heat pumps don’t generate heat like a gas furnace. Instead, they extract heat from the air and move it indoors. Even when it feels freezing outside, there’s still some heat energy in the air. Heat pumps capture that energy, amplify it using a refrigerant, and transfer its warmth into your home. Think of a heat pump as an air conditioner that can run in reverse. Indeed, heat pumps cool in the summer the same way an AC does, by pulling heat out of your home and releasing it outside. But unlike an AC, a heat pump’s refrigerant can flow backward, reversing that process in the winter to bring heat inside. This dual functionality makes heat pumps an efficient solution for year-round climate control. Heat Pumps & Energy Efficiency One major advantage of heat pumps is their incredible efficiency. Because they move heat rather than generate it, they can deliver three to four units of heat for every unit of electricity consumed. That’s 300% to 400% efficiency compared to today’s best furnaces that top out at about 98% efficiency. Heat pumps work best when the weather is mild. For example, if it’s 50 degrees Fahrenheit outside, the system doesn’t have to work too hard to heat your home to 70 degrees. However, as the outdoor temperature drops, the heat pump must work increasingly harder to extract heat from the air. Older heat pumps struggled in cold weather, with steep efficiency drops once temperatures dipped below freezing. Fortunately, modern technology has addressed this issue. Today’s cold climate heat pumps are designed to perform well in temperatures as low as minus 22 degrees! Innovations like advanced refrigerants and improved coil designs have made this possible. For homeowners, this means you can enjoy the energy savings of a heat pump without sacrificing comfort when a cold front blows through. Heat Pumps in Colder Weather So, back to the question: At what temperature do heat pumps lose effectiveness? While the exact threshold depends on the model, most heat pumps experience the first efficiency drop around 25 to 30 degrees. They still function at temperatures below this range, but if you’re worried, you can always turn to supplemental heating. This takes several forms. Many heat pumps include a built-in electric resistance heater that kicks in during extremely cold conditions. This feature ensures your home stays warm, no matter the weather. Alternatively, some homeowners pair their heat pump with a traditional furnace in what’s known as a dual-fuel or hybrid system. This setup uses the electric heat pump for most of the season and switches to the gas furnace only when temperatures plummet. For residents of Southeastern Pennsylvania, where winter temperatures often hover around freezing, a heat pump is an excellent choice. A backup heat source might come in handy during emergencies, but for most homeowners, a heat pump works efficiently and effectively with no backup heat required. Choose Precision Air for Expert HVAC Services Precision Air Heating & Cooling has over 30 years of experience serving residents of Chester, Delaware, and Montgomery County, PA. As a family-owned and -operated business, we take pride in providing honest, reliable, and expert HVAC services. Our licensed and insured technicians receive ongoing training to stay updated on the latest heating technologies, so we can confidently handle any heat pump installation or repair. If you’re ready to install a new heat pump, please contact us for a free estimate in the West Chester area.
Why an Indoor Air Quality Test Is Essential for Newer Homes
Why an Indoor Air Quality Test Is Essential for Newer Homes Do you live in a newer home? Always sneezing, feeling tired, or just not healthy when you are home? It’s time for you to get an indoor air quality test! Even the cleanest, most modern homes can trap pollutants that affect your health. That’s why scheduling an indoor air quality test is one of the smartest (and easiest) things you can do to breathe easier and feel better at home. Let’s break down why it matters. Why Getting An Air Quality Test Matters? Helps identify hidden contaminants such as: Mold spores Allergens (like pet dander or pollen) Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) Dust and fine particles Detects other harmful pollutants that may not be visible but can affect your health, including: Carbon monoxide or elevated CO₂ levels Chemical fumes from cleaning products or paints Smoke residue from fireplaces or past events Bacteria and airborne pathogens These pollutants may silently contribute to symptoms like headaches, fatigue, breathing issues, and allergy flare-ups—making air quality testing an essential first step to a healthier home. Poor indoor air quality is often linked to allergies, asthma, respiratory problems, and other health issues, so addressing these concerns can significantly improve your family’s comfort and well-being. How to Improve Indoor Air Quality After Testing With the insights from an air quality test, you can implement tailored solutions to create a cleaner, healthier environment. For example, options include: Air scrubbers, which remove contaminants like bacteria, viruses, and allergens Energy recovery ventilators (ERVs), bring in fresh, filtered air while balancing humidity and reducing energy loss High-efficiency MERV filters capture a wide range of particles, from dust and pollen to finer pollutants. These solutions work together to ensure your home’s air is clean, fresh, and safe, promoting both comfort and long-term health. Need An Air Quality Test? Precision Air Is Here To Help! If you’ve been wondering whether your home’s air is as clean as it should be, it might be time to find out. Precision Air Heating & Cooling offers professional indoor air quality testing to uncover hidden pollutants and help you breathe more easily. From identifying airborne irritants to recommending the right solutions—like air scrubbers, energy recovery ventilators (ERVs), and MERV filters—we tailor everything to your home’s needs. Whether you’re in West Chester or anywhere in Southeastern PA, we’re here to make your home healthier, fresher, and more comfortable! Contact Us | Request Estimate