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Close up of Panasonic AC compressors

How Long Do AC Compressors Last?

If your air conditioning unit is having problems, it could be caused by the compressor reaching the end of its lifespan, but how long is that? Typically, an AC compressor will last 10-15 years with proper maintenance before they start to fail. In addition to maintenance, there are also other factors that can affect the lifespan of your device, including refrigerant levels, system workload, the climate you live in, and others. Let’s take a closer

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AC unit outside Orlando, FL home

How Long Does an AC Unit Last in Florida?

Most air conditioning units in Florida last 10-15 years, which is shorter than the average national lifespan of 15-20 years. Florida’s heat and high humidity force ACs to work harder, and they often run nearly year-round. Several factors affect AC units in Florida, including the salty coastal air, almost non-stop run times, and how well the AC unit is maintained. If your AC system is 10-15 years old, you have rising energy bills, frequent breakdowns,

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Man testing indoor air quality during Florida summer

Why Indoor Air Quality Feels Worse During Florida Summers

Florida summers are hot and humid, and those heavy, sticky conditions can make it harder to breathe. That’s so often the case indoors too since dust, odors, allergens and stale air can accumulate there. And if your HVAC system isn’t working well, your home’s humidity level will usually increase to the point that all of those air quality factors worsen considerably. Quick Takeaways Florida’s high humidity creates ideal conditions for mold, mildew and airborne contaminants

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Man covering his nose because of musty smells coming from AC unit

5 Reasons Why Your AC Smells Musty When It Turns On

When your AC first fires up on a sweltering day, you expect relief from the heat — not a blast of odorous air that smells like a damp, moldy basement. Alas, this unpleasant phenomenon is more common than you might expect, especially here in hot and humid Orlando, FL. These musty odors are almost always an indication of excess moisture inside your HVAC system. So, should you be worried? To answer that question, let’s dig

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HVAC making sure heat pump meets electrical requirements

The Complete Guide to Heat Pump Electrical Requirements

To work safely and efficiently, all residential heat pumps need certain electrical connections. However, these requirements can vary from heat pump to heat pump, so knowing what you’re doing is vital. Of course, some homeowners dread talking about electricity. This subject often feels technical or even confusing, particularly with the special terminology and measurements that are involved. However, once you grasp the basics, you can avoid frustrating electrical installation issues and dangerous system failures. This

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One Hour Air Tech installing a much needed heat pump system outside a Orlando FL home

What Size Heat Pump Do I Need?

Choosing the right heat pump size is crucial for comfort and efficiency. However, the “size” doesn’t refer to the physical size of the heat pump. Rather, it refers to the unit’s heating and cooling capacity. Many homeowners rely on the square footage alone, but this often gives them incorrect results. Instead, they should rely on the Manual J load calculation, which factors in climate, insulation, and your home’s layout. This guide explains the sizing basics,

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Homeowner replacing heat pump filter

How Often to Change a Heat Pump Filter

Heat pump filters enhance your HVAC system’s energy efficiency, promote proper airflow, and improve indoor air quality in your home. Since these filters work silently and passively, many homeowners take them for granted and neglect them. Unfortunately, failing to replace a dirty filter can severely impact your heat pump’s performance and longevity. Below, we’ll discuss how often you should change your filter, factors that affect how often it needs to be replaced, and how proper

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Heat pump with condensate line

Do Heat Pumps Have a Condensate Line?

Many homeowners are often surprised to learn that heat pumps produce condensation, sometimes gallons of moisture a day. All this moisture must be safely drained outside via the heat pump’s condensate line to prevent leaks, mold, or damage to the system. Understanding how the condensate line works can help homeowners spot maintenance issues early. This article explains how the condensate forms, why it forms, why the condensate drain line is important, and how regular maintenance

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HVAC tech handling faulty reversing valve on heat pump

How to Unstick a Reversing Valve on a Heat Pump

Your heat pump has a reversing valve that is responsible for changing the flow of refrigerant, allowing the system to switch between heating and cooling modes. If this part becomes stuck or fails, the unit may stay locked in one mode. Sometimes, the issue stems from electrical problems rather than a full valve failure. That’s why an expert diagnosis is so important. We’ll be able to quickly pinpoint the true cause and select the most

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Freezing woman sitting near space heater because heat pump is not heating

8 Reasons Your Heat Pump Is Not Heating

If your heat pump is leaving you cold, you may wonder what’s wrong and whether the issue is serious. As it turns out, this common problem can have many causes. Some of these issues are easy to address, while others require professional repair. Heat pumps are popular with Florida residents because they’re well-suited to the state’s warm climate. These systems work differently than furnaces and need specialized care when things go wrong. Below, we’ll explore

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