The new Change to Flamable Refrigerants

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You should get your central air sooner rather than later.   Next year, the cost will go up, with central units operating with Flammable refrigerant and sparkless parts.  All of this will cost some money. One good reason is trucks will have to have a slew of parts that are sparkless.  That will get passed to the consumer.    I would take advantage of it before the end of the year 2024 to get your central unit replaced.  Who knows if the Infrationary Act tax credits will be here anymore?    Reach out to us 7723443944

Refrigerant vs. Coolant: What’s the Difference?

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Refrigerants and coolants are both crucial in managing temperatures, but they serve different functions and are used in distinct systems. Understanding the distinct roles and properties of refrigerants and coolants ensures their proper use in respective systems, optimizing performance and longevity.

Refrigerant

Refrigerants are substances used to absorb heat and provide cooling by undergoing phase changes between liquid and gas states. They are essential in heat exchange processes in HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) and refrigeration systems.

Applications:

  • Air Conditioners: Absorb heat from indoor air and release it outside, cooling the indoor space.
  • Refrigerators/Freezers: Extract heat from the interior of the unit to keep the contents cold.

Properties:

  • Operate under high pressure.
  • Have low boiling points to enable efficient heat absorption.
  • Governed by safety and environmental regulations due to potential impacts on the ozone layer and global warming.

Coolant

Coolants, also known as antifreeze, are fluids used to regulate temperature in engines and machinery. They absorb heat from these systems to prevent overheating and provide freeze protection in cold climates.

Applications:

  • Automobile Engines: Circulate through the engine and radiator to maintain optimal operating temperatures.
  • Industrial Machinery: Used to cool various equipment to prevent overheating.

Properties:

  • Mixed with water (usually 50/50) for optimal thermal performance.
  • Contain anti-corrosion additives to protect engine components.
  • Have higher boiling points and lower freezing points than water, ensuring effectiveness in various climates.

Key Differences

Purpose:

  • Refrigerant: Cools air or spaces by transferring heat in HVAC and refrigeration systems.
  • Coolant: Regulates engine and machinery temperature to prevent overheating or freezing.

Phases:

  • Refrigerant: Cycles between liquid and gas phases during operation.
  • Coolant: Remains in liquid form throughout use.

Chemical Composition:

  • Refrigerant: Typically synthetic chemicals (like HFCs) designed for efficient phase change and heat absorption.
  • Coolant: Generally a mixture of water and glycol (ethylene or propylene) with anti-corrosion additives.

A/C Doctors is your go-to heating and air conditioning company. For top-notch services, give us a call at (772) 344-3944 or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.

How often should you change your A/C filter?

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Changing an A/C filter isn’t a big deal, unless you forget to change it. Sometimes you may not remember when you changed the filter last. If you haven’t changed the filter in a few months, now is definitely the right time to change it.

Cheap Filters Should Be Changed Monthly

The least expensive filters are designed to be used for a single month and tossed away. If you fail to change it, the filters become clogged with dust and are no longer effective. The monthly filters are not made to do their job for more than the recommended month. 

Bi- or Tri-Monthly Filters

If you pay more for filters, you can change them every other month or every three months. These filters have extra perks, like hypoallergenic sifters for pet dander and pet hair. The quality of air sent back up into your home is healthier as it is able to do a better job at filtering the air. Additionally, if you frequently forget to change filters, having the built-in convenience of changing them every other month or every three months helps.

Avoid the Burnt Smell

People often tell HVAC technicians that they smell something funny when they turn on their heat. If you don’t change your filters, you are getting the remnants of dirt and dust as the heated air is forced through the filter. It is old, stale, and smells funny when hot. Change your filter to avoid the burnt smell.

What you can expect during a replacement?

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What you can expect during a replacement

HVAC stands for “Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning.” If you are slated for an HVAC replacement, it could be one or more of these components that help keep your home warm or cool. Replacement projects for each item have a different set of expectations exclusive to each job.

What You Can Expect from an A/C System Replacement

At least two technicians will arrive at your home on the scheduled day. Refrigerant will be properly removed from the existing equipment and then power will be turned off to the entirety of your HVAC system. They will then begin removing the equipment from its power, drain line(s), duct work, hurricane straps and refrigerant line sets. The installation of your new equipment will vary depending on your home’s needs. You will receive new hurricane straps, new drain safety switches, a new emergency drain pan and any electrical alterations that are deemed necessary. Most installations include basic duct alterations to attach to your new equipment. If platform work for your new air handler is required, it will be corrected. That goes for your outside unit as well, as we can provide new slabs as needed. After the equipment’s installation, a start up checklist will be completed to ensure that the equipment will function as intended. Expect to block off about six to eight hours for most installations.

What You Can Expect from Ventilation Duct Replacements

In terms of ventilation replacements, it’s almost always ductwork. Some ducts are removed and reworked to go in different directions. Other ducts are replaced because they are worn out or something has damaged them, causing air leaks. Short of completely redesigning and reinstalling ducts, most ventilation ductwork is completed in just an hour or two. Taking a couple of hours off of work is all you need.