Arizona’s Labor Day weekend can be a scorcher. You’re trying to keep cool and well-hydrated while enjoying the holiday. But with the heat comes a crucial question. How do you keep your home cool and comfortable without overworking your AC unit? Here are some top tips to ensure a cool, fun Labor Day holiday in the Valley of the Sun.

Embrace the Power of Shade

Before cranking up the AC, consider natural cooling techniques. Blocking the sun’s rays is key. Close blinds, shades, and curtains on south-facing windows during peak sun hours between 10 am to 4 pm.

Become a Ceiling Fan Fanatic

Ceiling fans don’t actually cool the air. But by circulating air, they create a windchill effect, making you feel cooler. Ensure your ceiling fans are rotating counterclockwise during the summer to push cool air down.

Smart Thermostat Strategies

Set your thermostat to a higher temperature, 82 degrees or higher, when you’re not home and lower it gradually before you return. Don’t change the setting if you have pets or temperature sensitive home furnishings. This way, your AC isn’t constantly battling the Arizona heat while you’re out enjoying Labor Day festivities. Additionally, consider using smart home features to control your thermostat remotely, ensuring a cool haven upon your return.

AC TLC

A well-maintained AC unit is essential for an energy-efficient home and lower utility bills.

• Change the Air Filter: A clogged air filter forces your AC to work harder, reducing efficiency and increasing your energy bill. Replace your air filter at least once a month during the summer peak season.
• Clean the Outdoor Unit: Dust and debris can accumulate on the condenser coil, the radiator-like part outside, hindering heat release. Gently hose down the coil with a low-pressure spray to remove dust buildup.
• Keep Vents Open: Check all your home vents to make certain they are open. Closing vents causes your AC to work harder resulting in higher monthly utility bills.

By implementing these simple ideas, you can enjoy the Labor Day holiday with a perfectly balanced equation: a cool and comfortable home, a happy and efficient AC unit, and a relaxed and refreshed you.

Call Bruce’s

Bruce’s technicians can help you avoid potential AC unit failures during holidays and all year long. Call us today at 480-968-5652 to schedule an appointment. We’re available whenever you need our expertise 24/7/365. Happy Labor Day!

Phoenix metro summers are legendary for their relentless heat. But what happens when your air conditioner freezes up? This icy situation can occur for several reasons unique to Arizona’s scorching climate. Here’s why your AC might be forming ice and how to prevent these frosty meltdowns.

The Culprit: Restricted Airflow

Imagine your AC unit as a hardworking athlete. Just like any athlete needs oxygen to perform, your AC needs proper airflow to function efficiently. The most common reason for ice buildup is restricted airflow across the evaporator coils. The evaporator coil is responsible for absorbing heat from the indoor air. Restricted airflow can be caused by several factors:

• Clogged Air Filter: Arizona’s dusty climate is notorious for clogging air filters with dust, pollen, and debris. A clogged filter reduces airflow causing the evaporator coils to become excessively cold. This leads to moisture in the air freezing on the coils, creating an icy buildup.
• Dirty Ducts: Over time, dust and debris can accumulate within your air ducts. This buildup restricts airflow throughout your system, mimicking the effect of a clogged filter.
• Blocked Vents: Furniture or objects placed too close to vents can restrict airflow into the system. This results in your AC unit having to work overtime to help air circulate throughout your home.
• Malfunctioning Blower Fan: The blower fan is responsible for circulating air across the evaporator coils. A malfunctioning fan won’t provide adequate airflow, leading to potential ice formation.

Preventing the Icy Apocalypse

Here’s how to avoid these frosty situations and keep your AC running smoothly all summer long:

• Change your air filter regularly: Check and replace your air filter monthly during Arizona’s monsoon season and every two to three months during other times.
• Schedule regular AC maintenance: Twice yearly maintenance by a local qualified technician can identify potential problems like dirty coils or failing components before they cause ice buildup.
• Invest in a programmable thermostat: Program your thermostat to adjust temperatures automatically when you’re away or sleeping. This reduces unnecessary strain on your AC system.

Contact Bruce’s Today

Remember, an icy AC unit is a warning sign. Ignoring ice buildup can lead to further damage and costly repairs. The best way to ensure your AC unit keeps you cool all summer long is to call your professionals at Bruce’s Air Conditioning & Heating at 480-968-5652. Schedule your appointment today to have our technicians immediately diagnose and address any HVAC issues.

If you live in Arizona, you know the summer heat is no joke. Temperatures routinely soar above 100°F, making air conditioning an absolute necessity rather than a luxury. But did you know that damaged or outdated HVAC ductwork could be forcing your home’s AC to work harder than it needs to? This increased strain can not only lead to higher energy bills; it can also shorten the lifespan of your HVAC system. The good news is, there are simple steps you can take to improve ductwork efficiency and lower those sky-high cooling costs.

Ductwork Leaks

The biggest issue with leaky, damaged, or aging ductwork is that it causes cooled air to escape before it can circulate through your home. According to Energy.gov, homes with ductwork leaks can lose up to 30% of the air moving through the system. Those leaks force your AC to run longer cycles to achieve the desired temperature, consuming more energy.

Hot Air and Dust

Improperly sealed ducts also create opportunities for hot attic air and dust to infiltrate the system. When that super-heated air seeps in, it makes the AC work even harder to cool your home’s air to the thermostat setting. The dust that comes in can also clog components like the air filter, further reducing efficiency.

Professional Inspection

So, what can you do to prevent duct leaks from driving up your electricity bills? First, have your local HVAC professionals inspect your ductwork to identify any leaks, disconnections, or other damage. They can then properly seal any openings using mastic sealant or metal tape. Insulating exposed ducts is another way to minimize cooled air loss and improve efficiency.
Another smart move is to ensure your ducts are the correct size for your HVAC system. Improperly sized ducts can restrict airflow, causing your system to underperform. During a duct replacement, your local contractor can calculate and install the ideal duct sizing for your home’s cooling needs.

Call Bruce’s

We’re your local HVAC experts with decades of experience evaluating and repairing ductwork. Fixing duct leaks will result in cooled air being evenly distributed throughout your home all year long. Your AC unit will be blowing air where it needs to go, saving you money on your monthly utility bills. Call Bruce’s Air Conditioning & Heating at 480-968-5652 today to schedule your appointment. We’re here for you 24/7, including holidays.

It’s never too early to start tax planning for 2025! With Arizona’s scorching summer temperatures on the way, energy-efficient HVAC systems are essential for homeowners to keep utility bills under control while maintaining comfort. Fortunately, there are numerous federal tax credits and local utility rebate programs available that can significantly offset the costs of investing in new high-efficiency heating and cooling equipment or home energy upgrades. Here are some of the top opportunities you should take advantage of.

Federal Tax Credits

The Inflation Reduction Act, passed in 2022, extended and expanded several tax credit opportunities related to HVAC, insulation, windows, and other home efficiency projects. Through 2032, homeowners can claim:

• Up to $600 tax credit for energy-efficient central AC, air-source heat pumps, and natural gas furnaces.
• Up to $600 credit for water heaters, biomass stoves, and electric panels.
• Up to $1,200 annual credit for insulation, exterior windows, skylights, and exterior doors.

To qualify, HVAC equipment and other components must meet specific energy efficiency ratings. Installation costs are covered with no cap on total credits claimed for eligible projects.

SRP Residential Rebates

Salt River Project offers several HVAC rebates for its residential electric customers: $200 per double HVAC load, $85/ton for variable speed AC units, and $150 for ENERGY STAR multi-split systems with ratings of 19+ SEER. There are also rebates for room ACs, insulation, windows, and whole-home energy efficiency upgrades. This is an easy way for you to upgrade your HVAC system and take advantage of these rebates.

APS Coolcash Incentives

Arizona Public Service’s incentive program provides rebates for replacing central AC units with advanced 16+ SEER air conditioners or heat pumps. The cash back amounts range from $280 to $725 based on the new system’s efficiency rating. APS also offers discounts on window AC units, duct repairs, and insulation.

Get in Touch with Bruce’s HVAC Experts Today

With summer right around the corner, you know as an Arizona homeowner that you pay a premium to keep things cool. Don’t miss out on these phenomenal tax credits and rebates that can save you thousands when upgrading your home’s HVAC. Check qualifications, file for credits at tax time, and reap the savings over the long-term by reaching out to your knowledgeable local experts at Bruce’s Air Conditioning & Heating. Call us today at 480-968-5652 to schedule your appointment.

Phoenix metro might boast year-round sunshine, but when winter lingers, indoor air quality often takes a hit. Stagnant air, high ozone levels, blooming flowers and trees, and even everyday activities can contribute to a cocktail of pollutants that irritate lungs and impact overall health. Let’s explore the top culprits threatening your home’s air quality during late winter.

1. Dust, Pollen, and the Dreaded Dust Storm:

As winter winds pick up, they can whip up dust and pollen, creating a potent respiratory irritant. Closing windows and doors might seem your logical choice, but it traps existing pollutants inside. Investing in an air purifier with a HEPA filter can trap these airborne particles, significantly improving indoor air quality.

2. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs):

These chemicals, emitted from household products like paints, cleaning solutions, and personal care items, can build up indoors, especially with closed windows. You’ll want to opt for low-VOC alternatives whenever possible, ensure proper ventilation during and after product use, and properly store strong-smelling products outside if possible.

3. Mold and Mildew:

Winter months with limited ventilation and potential moisture leaks can create a breeding ground for mold and mildew. These microscopic organisms can trigger allergies and respiratory problems. You’ll want to inspect for signs of moisture intrusion, address leaks promptly with your trustworthy local HVAC specialists, and use dehumidifiers to control humidity levels below 55%.

4. Pet Dander and Fur:

While your furry friends bring love and joy, their dander and fur can exacerbate allergies and asthma. Regular grooming, frequent vacuuming, and dedicated pet-free zones can minimize airborne pet allergens. You may want to consider buying air purifiers with HEPA filters specifically designed for pet dander.

5. Carbon Monoxide (CO):

This odorless, colorless gas, a byproduct of combustion, can leak from gas appliances, fireplaces, and even portable generators. Install CO detectors in your home and ensure proper maintenance of all combustion appliances. Regularly testing these detectors is crucial for early detection and prevention of CO poisoning.

Your health and comfort depend on good indoor air quality. At Bruce’s Air Conditioning, we believe everyone should be breathing clean indoor air. Our certified technicians are available for questions and concerns 24/7, including all holidays. Call us today at 480-968-5652 to schedule an appointment for specific recommendations and solutions tailored to your home’s unique needs.