Category Archives: Blog

Heat Pump Installation Ashburn VA

4 Advantages of a 25VNA4 Infinity® 24 Heat Pump with Greenspeed® Intelligence

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The winter months are rolling in, which means colder weather is too! Keep your home cozy and warm as we approach the winter season with the 25VNA4 Infinity® 24 Heat Pump. It’s energy-efficient, brings comfort to your home, and controls humidity 400% better than standard systems. Contact your local heat pump installation company for more information.

R.A. Dobson is a certified Carrier partner. Our trained professionals know the ins and outs of their products, especially the 25VNA4 Infinity® 24 Heat Pump with Greenspeed® Intelligence. For the past 45 years, residents in Ashburn, VA, have turned to us for their heat pumps, humidifier, and HVAC installations. Contact us at (703) 481-3700 today to get started on your heat pump installation.

Below, we discuss the 4 advantages of the 25VNA4 Infinity® 24 Heat Pump:

Overview

The 25VNA4 Infinity® 24 Heat Pump with Greenspeed® Intelligence features state-of-the-art heating technology. It’s a combination of adaptable-speed mechanics with Infinity® System Control. Its variable-speed compressor modifies its output to the unique needs of every home, which helps it stand out from other models.

Depending on the season and temperature, homeowners can set the heat pump between 25% and 100% capacity. It can operate at steady, low degrees to save energy and work quietly. Plus, it trumps standard systems with its tighter temperature control and sleek design.

25VNA4 Infinity® 24 Heat Pump’s Advantages

  1. Energy Efficiency

You can do your part to save the planet and reduce energy consumption with the 25VNA4 Infinity® 24 Heat Pump. Heat pumps are great alternatives to furnaces and air conditioners for all climates because they use electricity to transfer heat. The 25VNA4 Infinity® 24 Heat Pump has up to 24 SEER and up to 13 HSPF for premium energy saving. The higher the SEER rating, the more users save annually on heating and cooling their homes.

  1. Delivers Consistent Comfort

The 25VNA4 Infinity® 24 Heat Pump has precise temperature regulation and few temperature swings, which allow it to provide consistent comfort and control. Moreover, its premium customized comfort features—such as the Infinity® control board—grant individuals unrivaled command of functioning. Users can adjust the pump’s heating, cooling, humidification, dehumidification, and fan speed capabilities from one control panel.

  1. Controls Humidity

Humidity within a home creates an uncomfortable, damp, and undesirable environment for all occupants. Yet a new heat pump can address that humidity and other factors contributing to such discomfort.

While standard systems might seem like they’re doing the job just fine, the 25VNA4 Infinity® 24 Heat Pump can remove up to 400% more moisture in the air. Contact your local heat pump installation professionals to see if your old heat pump needs replacement.

  1. Operates Quietly
Heat Pump Installation Ashburn VA

As a homeowner, you own more than one appliance, and the noise of them all can get distracting and overwhelming. Luckily, the 25VNA4 Infinity® 24 Heat Pump works quietly. It comes with a sound blanket and operates up to 50% quieter than comparable systems.

Sound blankets don’t impede airflow—instead, they insulate the compressor and aid the unit in maintaining a more consistent temperature. This way, your heat pump does its job without disturbing noises.

Safe and Affordable Heat Pump Installation in Ashburn, VA

Whether it’s their eco-friendly design, quiet operation, or design variations, we guarantee homeowners will be pleased with their 25VNA4 Infinity® 24 heat pump installation. At R.A. Dobson, we specialize in installing, maintaining, and repairing heat pumps and a wide variety of other home systems for residents of Ashburn, VA. With over 45 years of experience, you can count on us to get the job done swiftly and safely. Contact us at (703) 481-3700 to learn about heat pumps and how they can benefit your home.

Sewer Line Repair Ashburn VA

Warning Signs of Sewer Line Clogs

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Is your plumbing system ready for the holidays? While home maintenance may be a huge hassle, you cannot ignore it. Indeed, neglecting standard home maintenance can result in ever-increasing problems that make your house uninhabitable. Contact an experienced sewer line repair company to unclog the lines in your home if you notice standing or slow-draining water in your drains. Doing so is particularly important if you plan to have a house full of guests this Thanksgiving.

R.A. Dobson’s technicians are the indoor sewer line repair experts that Ashburn, VA, homeowners can always call. A second-generation family business, we’ve helped folks in Northern Virginia for over 45 years with everything from broken air conditioners to leaking pipes. You can learn about our successful projects and satisfied customers in our glowing reviews! To fix your clogged sewer line, contact us at (703) 481-3700 or visit our website for more information.

Below, we discuss 4 warning signs of a clogged sewer line:

1. Smelly Drains

When a home sewer line clogs, the drains attached to the system usually give off foul and peculiar smells. Hair, trash, waste, and more can accumulate in a sewer line. Depending on where the clog forms, it may even affect multiple drains at once.

Nevertheless, an R.A. Dobson service technician can dislodge these materials from indoor pipes without a problem. Don’t hesitate to call our sewer line repair company, as this issue will only worsen over time.

2. “Slow” or Stopped Drains

If it seems like water takes forever to drain from a shower or sink, you might have a clogged sewer line on your hand. As mentioned above, everyday substances can prevent water from draining down a pipe.

Hair and soap scum, for instance, can build up over time and create blockages that obstruct water flow. Furthermore, standing water breeds bacteria that threaten your home’s occupants and structural integrity if left untreated.

3. Gurgling Drains

Sewer Line Repair Ashburn VA

Besides smells and sights, clogged sewer lines also make tell-tale sounds. The most common one is gurgling, which will occur after a toilet flushes. Draining water, as it attempts to move past the clog in the line, produces this sound due to the pressure and lack of space.

Beyond standard sewer line repair, your plumbing system may also benefit from a drain cleaning service. Speak to R.A. Dobson’s professional technicians about your options, and schedule multiple services during one appointment to save time and money.

4. Sewage Back Up

Perhaps the most salient and disturbing sign your sewer line is clogged is raw sewage coming up through your drains. Consider: line clogs prevent sewage and wastewater from draining. When water flows down your drain and meets that sewage, it has nowhere to go but back up through your drains.

Flushing the toilet, using the washing machine, and running the dishwasher can bring wastewater back up through your drains. That dirty water fills sinks and showers, making an unpleasant scene. If this happens, turn off the water supply to your fixtures and call an emergency plumbing expert.

Customer-First Sewer Line Repair in Ashburn, VA

There’s a reason R.A. Dobson is a trusted plumbing company among Ashburn, VA, residents. For over 45 years, homeowners have counted on us to fix their home systems efficiently and safely. That said, we’re confident our sewer line repair services can turn your home from chaos to comfortable in no time. To start fixing your clogged sewer line, contact us at (703) 481-3700 or visit our website.

Whole Home Humidifier Ashburn VA

Is the AprilAire Model 600 Automatic Humidifier Right for You?

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Humidifiers are popular for their health, comfort, and other protective benefits. Indeed, if dry air plagues your home, a whole-home humidifier installation could solve the issue. Specifically, consider the AprilAire Model 600 Automatic Humidifier—a cutting-edge, versatile model capable of humidifying your entire home automatically. Safe, comfortable indoor air quality is just one purchase away with the AprilAire Model 600. Learn about the product—including its features and benefits—to determine whether the Model 600 would suit your needs.

R.A. Dobson offers humidifier installation, maintenance, repair, and replacement to homeowners in the Ashburn, VA, area. We pair high-functioning, state-of-the-art systems with knowledgeable, skilled craftsmanship. Say goodbye to dry air with the help of our air quality specialists and contact us online or at (703) 481-3700.

Below, we describe the AprilAire Model 600’s functioning, features, and benefits:

Description

Evaporative humidifiers work by filling their top distribution tray with water. Then, a system of outlets disburses the water evenly throughout the tray, and gravity spurs the water to flow across the water panel evaporator. Hot, dry air from the HVAC system then blows through the panel evaporator, filling your home with humidified air through natural evaporation.

Manufacturers designed the AprilAire Model 600 Automatic Humidifier to provide optimum indoor humidity levels. This top-of-the-line humidifier automatically maintains a consistent humidity level in homes up to 4000 square feet. Moreover, a built-in bypass damper allows for seamless installation and adjustable summer/winter settings. 

Features

The Model 600 boasts several notable features, including:

  • Whole-home coverage: The unit’s 17-gallon tank can cover up to 2,500 square feet in conventionally built homes and 4,000 square feet in tightly constructed homes.
  • Automatic humidity control: Dual sensors monitor and react to indoor relative humidity and outdoor temperature. This system provides automatic, continuous, and optimal humidity control throughout your home.
  • Digital interface: The Model 600’s convenient digital interface displays on/off power, humidity percentage, water panel status, and working condition. Moreover, the Blower Activation switch can run continuously or only when the furnace runs.
  • Trustworthy craftsmanship: AprilAire invented the whole-home evaporative humidifier, designing and manufacturing the Model 600 in the U.S. Plus, with an installation from R.A. Dobson, you can expect a 1-year service warranty on top of any applicable manufacturer warranties.

Benefits

Whole Home Humidifier Ashburn VA

Among many benefits, humidifiers safeguard you and your family’s health. The AprilAire Model 600 Automatic Humidifier reduces the threat of respiratory infections, allergy symptoms, and asthma due to poor indoor air quality. The unit does so by humidifying and filtering out bacteria, viruses, fungi, and dust from the air. 

Even beyond immediate health benefits, the Model 600 offers comfort by replacing dry air with a pleasant humidity level. Dry air can irritate the skin, eyes, mouth, and throat. AprilAire’s Model 600 combats this automatically by sensing and responding to dryness with the right amount of humidity every time.  

The AprilAire Model 600 also protects the integrity of your home and belongings. Wood floors, furnishings, and cabinetry require a natural amount of humidity. It preserves the wood’s beauty, avoiding permanent damage such as cracking, warping, and other detrimental effects. 

Buy a New Whole-Home Humidifier in Ashburn, VA

R.A. Dobson offers whole-home humidifier installation for Ashburn, VA, homes. For over 45 years, we’ve helped folks improve their home’s indoor air quality. Thus, you can trust the skills and knowledge of our qualified humidifier technicians. Old or new, we’ll service your humidifier to ensure it remains in working condition. For more information on how we can help, call us at (703) 481-3700 today.

Plumbing Repair Ashburn VA

Signs Your Drain Needs Professional Cleaning

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Plumbing problems can develop gradually and without warning. Clogged drains, for example, may not exhibit symptoms at first. Still, homeowners eventually notice slow-draining water, an overflowing toilet, backed-up sewage, or drain odors. While these signs may arise due to a clogged drain, the issue can run much deeper. So, turn to a professional plumbing repair service to get to the source of the problem.

R.A. Dobson specializes in heating, air conditioning, and plumbing services. We are a second-generation family business that serves residents in Ashburn, VA. We offer drain cleaning and sewer line repair for regular maintenance and emergency needs. Contact us at (703) 481-3700 to have your plumbing system assessed.

Below, we outline common drain clog signs:

Slow-Draining Water

The most common clogged drain symptom is slow-draining water in your plumbing fixtures. You may also notice bubbling and gurgling sounds alongside slow-draining water, further signs of a plumbing system problem.

In bathroom sinks, excess soap or toothpaste can cause drain clogs. Shower and bath drain clogs, on the other hand, tend to arise from soap products and hair. While these problems may seem isolated, one clog can influence other drain pipes’ health.

Overflowing Toilet

Perhaps the most common sign of clogged drains is an overflowing toilet. Frequent changes in the toilet water level, frequent clogging, and a malfunctioning toilet are all signs of drainage issues. Furthermore, you may notice water pooling around your toilet’s base. 

Toilets can clog due to excess toilet paper, sanitary wipes, or feminine hygiene products. They also struggle when anyone (perhaps children) flushes toys or foreign objects.

Backed-Up Water

Objects are not the only cause of drain clogs. Sometimes, a residue buildup can create this issue. Such gradual clogs can restrict drain flow, causing the water to back up. Water that fails to drain—especially in the bathtub or sink—can indicate a similar problem.

Plumbing Repair Ashburn VA

There may also be leaks near various plumbing fixtures throughout your home. Although backed-up water and leaks may appear benign, they create unsanitary conditions and indicate a foreboding problem within your plumbing system.

Drain Odors

Strange or stinky odors are another variety of plumbing issue symptoms. However, you should distinguish where the odor is arising. A sulfur smell is usually associated with microbial changes in your water supply. Conversely, a foul sewage odor emanating from your drains is most likely related to the plumbing components in your home.

Kitchen drain clogs usually arise from food particle buildup or oil blockages. These drain clogs can come from pipe overload or undersized pipes. If you notice a foul odor in your kitchen drain, ensure your garbage disposal is functioning. The smell may come from food lodged therein.

Reliable Plumbing Repair Services in Ashburn, VA

Prevent plumbing problems from compromising your entire plumbing system with the help of R.A. Dobson. We provide effective plumbing repair and faucet installation services in Ashburn, VA. Moreover, we can keep your drains free from obstructions and buildup with regular drain cleaning services. To learn about our financing options and get a free estimate, contact us at (703) 481-3700.

whole home humidifier Ashburn, VA

3 Aprilaire Model 700 Power Humidifier Installation Benefits

Blog, Humidifier Installation

Ideal indoor humidity levels support proper hydration, a comfortable environment, and a moderate indoor temperature. Humidifiers improve your home’s humidity levels by adding moisture to the indoor air when it becomes too dry. Install a whole home humidifier that offers efficient technology, humidity control, and other system features. 

R.A. Dobson offers such installation services throughout Ashburn, VA. We have over 4 decades of experience and a team of certified technicians. Moreover, we offer a 1-year service warranty and honor all manufacturer warranties. Our repair, maintenance, and installation services help keep your home comfortable year-round. Contact us today at (703) 481-3700 to get a free estimate.

Below, we outline the benefits of installing the Aprilaire Model 700:

  1. Efficient Technology

The Aprilaire Model 700 Humidifier is an American-made product that uses water vapor to humidify your home. First, it distributes water evenly across a tray through gravitational force. Then, the HVAC system introduces hot, dry air to evaporate the water. The cool water vapor thus disperses throughout your home.

This system can effectively cool up to 2,800 square feet in closed-concept homes. Moreover, its 18-gallon daily capacity can humidify your home all day—even amidst high temperatures.

  1. Humidity Control
Whole Home Humidifier Ashburn, VA

The Aprilaire 700 has humidity controls to moderate the degree of moisture in the air. Such controls feature dual sensors that monitor outdoor temperatures compared to indoor relative humidity.

Once an R.A. Dobson HVAC technician sets up the system, you need not adjust anything. The humidity panels maintain 40-60% humidity, the optimal level for reducing dust mites, viruses, bacteria, and fungi in your home. This range also minimizes respiratory irritations, including allergies and asthma. 

  1. Complete System Features

When you purchase the Aprilaire 700 humidifier, you will receive everything necessary to operate it efficiently, including a built-in fan, saddle valve, and solenoid valve. It also includes a convenient digital control panel that displays the humidity level, operation status, and maintenance status. The digital panel alerts you when the system needs the water tray changed or standard maintenance service.

Whole Air Humidifier Installation in Great Falls, VA

Entrust R.A. Dobson with your whole air humidifier installation in Great Falls, VA. We offer quality products and reliable service for your heating and cooling needs. Our clients experience excellent customer service and affordable prices. Moreover, we use the latest, energy-efficient technology to give you industry-leading performance. Contact us today at (703) 481-3700 to schedule a service appointment.

AC Repair Ashburn, VA

A Guide to HVAC Warranties

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Few home system breakdowns are as disruptive as HVAC breakdowns. Indeed, homeowners seem to forget the luxuries of A/C until their homes become saunas or igloos. To be frank, these situations require emergency repairs, which tend to be expensive. A new installation can cost anywhere from $3,500 to $7,500, and homeowners insurance won’t cover wear and tear from regular use or breakdowns due to old age. Yet home, manufacturer, and extended warranties can offset the cost of professional A/C repair and protect you from a significant hit to your bank account. 

R.A. Dobson offers HVAC services to homeowners in the Alexandria, VA, area. We provide top-notch services, including installing, maintaining, and repairing state-of-the-art Carrier air conditioners. Moreover, we offer a 1-year service warranty and honor all manufacturer warranties. For a client-centered HVAC service that cares, contact us at (703) 481-3700 today.

Below, we discuss different HVAC warranties to choose from:

Home Warranties

When you sign up for a home warranty, you agree to pay a monthly or annual fee—along with a service fee—to anticipate the ups and downs of home systems care. In contrast to homeowners insurance, a home warranty covers HVAC breakdowns from regular wear and tear. Predictable, slashed costs are often much more appealing to homeowners than unplanned, steep repair or replacement costs. 

You can choose from numerous providers with plans providing varying coverage for your HVAC system. Thoroughly examine the service contract before committing to a plan. Ensure the warranty you choose covers A/C and heating since they tend to be listed as separate units. 

HVAC Manufacturer Warranties

Many HVAC manufacturers will offer a warranty of their own. Although offerings vary, this type of warranty will often cover product defects and consequential repairs. Moreover, if you register your HVAC system with the manufacturer within two months or another specified time frame, you can sometimes receive perks or an upgraded warranty. 

Know there are government regulations surrounding manufacturer warranties as well. For instance, system buyers must access a limited warranty before purchasing. Also, manufacturers can’t force customers to register their products to maintain their limited warranty protection. Instead, they can offer incentives, as mentioned above.

HVAC Extended Warranties

AC Repair Ashburn, VA

You can also purchase an extended warranty, which extends coverage beyond the manufacturer’s original warranty and continues further with your HVAC system’s lifespan. This service contract is presented and agreed to during or after the purchase of your HVAC system.

You can purchase an HVAC extended warranty from the manufacturer or a third-party provider. Wielding this knowledge, you have the opportunity to navigate a variety of plans and choose the best one for you. 

R.A. Dobson: Professional A/C Repair and Replacement in Alexandria, VA

R.A. Dobson is your expert A/C repair provider operating in Alexandria, VA. A 2nd-generation family business with decades of experience, you can trust workmanship that lasts and service that exceeds expectations. Moreover, you can expect service and manufacturer warranties that protect your home, comfort, and finances. Contact us online or call us today at (703) 481-3700.

Sump Pump Repair Ashburn VA

Why Virginia Homeowners Need a Functional Sump Pump

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Virginia homeowners, particularly those near the coast, face a substantial threat of basement flooding. Yet they can protect their homes from water damage with an effective and professionally installed sump pump. If you have a defective or damaged sump pump, seek sump pump repair services and learn how a dysfunctional system can affect your home. After all, effective flood prevention entails responsible and informed homeowning.

R.A. Dobson can provide professional services as well as expert guidance to homeowners throughout Ashburn, VA. In addition to sump pump repair, our plumbing services include drain cleaning, faucet installation, sewer line maintenance, and more. For over 45+ years, the R.A. Dobson team has sought to provide high-quality, affordable home services to folks who need them. To learn more or receive a free project estimate, fill out our website’s form.

Below, we outline the importance of sump pump repair and a functional setup:

Fighting Water and its Effects

A sump pump’s function is to remove any water that reaches your basement. You might consider it a last line of defense—after moisture seeps inside through cracks or floodwaters penetrate your structure, the sump basin collects it. The pump portion then removes it from the space, draining it away from your structure.

While it may operate as a last line of defense, sump pumps can save your home from the worst of water’s effects. Your home faces several sources of water damage. In addition to flooding, it is vulnerable to groundwater and plumbing leaks. Decide where you’d rather have this water end up: sitting in your basement or running into a storm drain.

The Benefits of an Effective Sump Pump

An effective sump pump’s most significant benefits, paradoxically, lie in what it causes not to happen. For instance, a potential side effect of sewer line flooding is sewage backup. If a severe backup affects your home, you may face not only a disgusting smell but also some unhealthy vapors. In some cases, these vapors lead to gastroenteritis.

Sump pump repair is also an essential way to improve your quality of life. For instance, it can reduce the humidity level in your home. If you’ve ever seen paint peeling from interior walls or moisture dripping from your windows, have a sump pump installed before humidity creates more issues.

Sump Pump Repair Ashburn VA

Furthermore, flooded basements cause mold and mildew growth as well as poor indoor air quality. Yet a sump pump repair in your basement can prevent moisture buildup and its side effects though. So, an effective sump pump establishes a home with clean air, few health risks, and low costs for flood damage.

How Sump Pump Repair Works for Virginia Homeowners

Although simple in concept, sump pump repair requires specific steps from homeowners. They should contact a specialist with training in sump pump repair to ensure they protect their home. These pumps are complex devices, uncooperative to DIY efforts. A specialist can clean a sump pump of debris and check the electricity through the circuit breaker box if the device isn’t functioning at all. 

Since sump pumps exist to remove water from a structure, professional repairs are necessary to avoid further household damage and expenses. We recommend that homeowners make inspections and repairs a part of their general maintenance routine, as they carry out maintenance when preparing their home for winter.

Sump Pump Repair Available throughout Ashburn, VA

If you notice sewage backup, increased humidity, or indoor air quality changes within your home, turn to R.A. Dobson for professional sump pump repair. Ashburn, VA, homeowners should knock out such repairs and updates as soon as possible. They can rely on our team’s high standards and sterling reputation for the best home services. Call us today at (703) 481-3700 and tell us about your home’s needs.

Humidifier Repair Ashburn VA

Benefits of an Aprilaire 800 Residential Steam Humidifier

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If you want professional humidifier repair or installation, invest in a system that provides the best bang for your buck. R.A. Dobson’s expert team recommends the Aprilaire 800 Residential Steam Humidifier, as it delivers health benefits and effectively combats the effects of poor indoor air. Nevertheless, these advantages hinge upon proper installation and maintenance.

R.A. Dobson specializes in providing home climate-control systems to folks in and around Ashburn, VA. We offer cutting-edge technology as well as outstanding customer service, built upon decades of experience. Moreover, we honor all manufacturer warranties and provide a 1-year warranty on our services. For a free project estimate, visit our website or call us at (703) 481-3700.

Below, we outline the benefits of humidifiers and the Aprilaire 800 system:

Humidifier System Types and Benefits

Although several home remedies can increase a building’s indoor humidity, mechanical humidifiers are designed to perform this specific task. Several different technologies can achieve this goal, but the most common kinds of humidifier systems are steam, impeller, ultrasonic, and wick.

Although each system comes with pros and cons, the benefits of humidifiers include:

  • Preventing respiratory illnesses like influenza
  • Easing coughs
  • Reducing snoring
  • Moistening building occupants’ skin and hair
  • Invigorating materials (and plants!) within a building

The Aprilaire 800 Residential Steam Humidifier

Humidifier Repair Ashburn VA

As its name suggests, the Aprilaire system operates using steam. It needs only simple upkeep: replace the machine’s canister—which contains electrodes that heat the water—with a new one at the end of peak usage season. That said, system repairs require a professional due to the Aprilaire’s delicate technology.

This humidifier can cover up to 5,200 square feet in an average interior. It works best in dry climates as well as those that undergo mild winters. The water it uses need not be purified; indeed, water impurities help transfer electrical charges.

Aprilaire 800 comes with digital, easy-to-use controls. Its dual sensor automatic setting tracks both outdoor temperature and indoor relative humidity to determine the optimal level for an individual structure. Finally, it aims to set an indoor humidity level between 40% – 60%, which curtails bacterial and fungal formation as well as allergy and asthma symptoms.

Humidifier Repair and Installation Available in Ashburn, VA!

You can boost your home’s comfort with one of the best humidifiers on the market. If you already own a system, turn to a humidifier repair service provider for inspection and updates. R.A. Dobson provides such options to homeowners throughout Ashburn, VA. We are a second-generation family business that aims to deliver high-quality services at affordable rates. Call us today at (703) 481-3700 or visit our website for more information!

Middleburg, VA, HVAC maintenance

5 Tips for Extending Your HVAC’s Lifespan

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As we approach another scorching summer, take a minute to schedule an HVAC maintenance and inspection service from R.A. Dobson. Doing so can extend your system’s lifespan and keep it functioning throughout the year’s hottest months. A few further practices—such as installing a high-quality filter, giving your unit clearance space, and keeping your home’s registers open—will ensure you get the best performance from your HVAC system.

R.A. Dobson is a 2nd-generation, family-run organization and a stalwart service provider for folks in Ashburn, VA. Our technicians are enthusiastic about their work because they know it supports everyday homeowners and families. Moreover, all our employees carry licenses and insurance to guarantee we deliver on our promises. Call (703) 481-3700 or visit our website to schedule a service appointment today!

Here, we outline some tips on how to protect your HVAC’s functioning:

1. Install a High-Performance Filter and Check it Monthly

Should it start operating less effectively than it once did, or do so at a higher cost, your HVAC may require repair or replacement. That said, a simple filter replacement may be the solution. Consult a professional and ask about a high-performance air filter.

The market’s new and improved filters outperform those made decades ago. Recent models have allergen reduction capabilities, enhanced materials, and high-efficiency ratings. Both you and your HVAC system can benefit from installing one.

No matter what quality filter you have, check it every month. If its surface appears dirty or stained, it requires replacement. Additionally, homeowners with pets that shed often may need to change their filter monthly. If you are unsure whether to replace your system’s filter, contact R.A. Dobson for a professional HVAC inspection.

2. Provide Ample Clearance and Clear Debris

HVAC maintenance Middleburg, VA

While you need not know every aspect and component of your HVAC system, you should recognize whether it has indoor and outdoor elements (as opposed to a window unit). Central HVAC system parts include air ducts, an indoor evaporator unit, and an outdoor condenser unit. These constituents require simple care.

To start, evaporators and condensers require ample open space. Thus, leave no objects or belongings leaning on these units. Likewise, avoid planting trees or shrubs around the condenser. In general, two feet of clearance is sufficient.

Furthermore, remove any detritus that land on these units. Condensers, in particular, tend to collect leaves, sticks, and other debris from their surrounding environment. Some quick cleaning will keep them clear and functioning.

3. Keep an Eye on Refrigerant Lines’ Insulation

Refrigerant lines are another crucial element of central HVAC systems’ functioning. They carry refrigerant fluid into evaporators, where the liquid pulls heat from interior air. That said, these lines should be insulated and intact to preserve their cooling capabilities. Missing insulation—or a broken line—will hamper your HVAC system’s efficacy.

If you notice a problem with your lines, contact R.A. Dobson for maintenance services. We can correct the problem and ensure your system continues to run without a hitch.

4. Make Sure Your Condenser Unit Remains Level

Although it may sound a bit silly considering the bulkiness of condensers, ensure your unit remains balanced. While evaporators sit inside a stable environment with little risk of tilting, condensers may lean due to outdoor conditions.

A technician can help you check that your unit sits on level ground (without any breaching tree roots) and may offer pads to solidify its stance.

5. Keep Your Home’s Registers Open as Much as Possible

Central HVAC systems have registers at the end of air ducts to give a building’s occupants control over the air that enters a room. Closing one register prevents cool air from penetrating a given space. However, closing the majority of a home’s registers can strain the system. Rather than doing so, consider adjusting your interior temperature.

HVAC Maintenance Services Available to Homeowners in Middleburg, VA

Keep your home safe and comfortable by investing in professional HVAC maintenance and repair services from R.A. Dobson. We supply these and further indoor climate services to homeowners throughout the Middleburg, VA, region. Our technicians aim to provide high-quality services and top-performing products to everyday families. Call us at (703) 481-3700 or visit our website for more HVAC information!

Thermostat repair in Leesburg, VA

Why Thermostat Installation Should Be Done by a Professional

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Do you know how long your home’s thermostat has been in use? Even these unobtrusive devices require repair and replacement from time to time. If you want a new thermostat, hire a professional technician for installation rather than trying to handle it yourself. An HVAC expert’s services ensure safe thermostat repair, maintenance, installation, and programming.

R.A. Dobson offers heating, air conditioning, and plumbing service to homeowners in Ashburn, VA. For over 45 years, our team of professional technicians has kept people comfortable in their homes. Plus, our previous customers have our services invaluable and helpful! Let an expert take care of your office or home system needs. Call us at (703) 481-3700 or visit our website today!

Below, we discuss why you should let a professional handle your thermostat installation, maintenance, repair, and programming:

Installation

Thermostats are complicated devices that contain sensitive electronics. Thus, they are not easy to install, even for those who have some experience with other electronics. A lot can go wrong when you start messing with the complex inner workings of a thermostat, which reinforces why you should leave doing so to the professionals.

Moreover, your thermostat’s location factors into its functioning as well. The best spot for one is an accessible space at the center of your structure, away from windows or drafts that can affect temperature readings. This placement ensures accurate readings and efficient energy use, as a professional will know.

Maintenance & Repair

Trying to maintain a thermostat yourself could leave the device operating inefficiently. As an essential component to regulating the comfort and energy use of your home, thermostats require proper maintenance and repair for optimal comfort and cost savings.

Moreover, a faulty thermostat can be unsafe and cause damage to your HVAC system by overloading circuits or fluctuating temperatures frequently. An experienced, qualified HVAC technician can maintain and repair your thermostat with safety and efficiency in mind.

Programming

We recommend that all homeowners use a programmable thermostat. If your home lacks one, speak with R.A. Dobson technicians about having a new model installed. A professional can both install and help you program the device.

You can set this kind of thermostat to turn off when unneeded and back on when temperatures rise. Models with zoning capabilities can also keep different rooms at varying temperatures. Best of all, you can regulate these features from a smartphone connected to Wi-Fi. This personalized automation reduces your energy consumption and increases your comfort level.

R.A. Dobson: Expert Thermostat Repair Services Available in Leesburg, VA

Thermostat repair in Leesburg, VA

R.A. Dobson provides professional thermostat repair services to residents of Leesburg, VA. We also provide a host of services dealing with HVAC and plumbing systems. Find out how R.A. Dobson can help you with installation, maintenance, and repair for more than just your thermostat. For a free estimate, fill out a request form online or call us at (703) 481-3700!