Tag Archives: HVAC inspection

Well maintained vents in Ashburn VA building that gets quality HVAC inspection

A Guide To Your HVAC System

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“HVAC” stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning, and an HVAC system is what heats and cools your home. During cold seasons, you rely on the furnace portion of your HVAC system. And during warmer months, you rely on the AC. But to keep both systems running, invest in a professional HVAC inspection service that checks all their basic parts. 

RA Dobson offers the best repairs, installations, and inspection services for HVAC systems in the area. We can help you save 60% on your energy bills with our highly efficient systems. Residents of Ashburn, VA, and the surrounding area trust our HVAC inspections and other services. 

Below, we explore the 8 basic parts of a typical HVAC system:

1. Thermostat

You can think of the thermostat as the “brain” of your HVAC system. It contains a thermometer that gauges the system’s running temperature against your home’s interior temperature. To match the two, the system turns on the furnace or air conditioner so that your home reaches the desired temperature.

2. Furnace and Blower Motor

Next is the furnace, a relatively large unit distinct from the AC that demands its own space in the basement, attic, or closet. A fuel source – such as natural gas, oil, or electricity – heats the air that comes into it. Then, an attached blower motor distributes the air through ducts to the rest of the house. The motor also pulls in cool air from the house to start the process over again.

3. Heat Exchanger

A heat exchanger is a device that transfers heat from one medium to another. If your furnace uses oil or gas, burners accomplish the heating. If it runs on electricity, electric coils heat the air. As the heat exchanger warms up the air, heat transfers to the metal walls. The air heats up quickly and then is distributed throughout the home. 

4. Evaporator Coil

An evaporator coil is the internal portion of a split-system air conditioner. It absorbs heat from the air in your house so that only cool air remains.

5. Condensing Unit

The condensing unit is a big metal unit that sits outside your house and expels the heat from the interior to the exterior.

6. Refrigerant Lines

Refrigerant lines make air conditioning possible. Made of copper and aluminum, and run between the condensing unit and evaporator coil. They are responsible for carrying the refrigerant between the condensing unit and the evaporator coil.

7. Ductwork

Ductwork includes all the metal passages that deliver and move the air. They should be sealed and insulated to prevent major temperature shifts. 

8. Return and Supply Registers

These are covers that fit over the ductwork ends. They allow air out of and into the HVAC system. They are typically located on the ceiling, walls, and floors depending on the ductwork layout. 

HVAC Inspection Now Available in Ashburn, VA

HVAC systems are the foundation of your home’s air quality and comfortability, yet they contain a lot of nuances and parts. So, let the RA Dobson team help you manage your HVAC system with an HVAC inspection service. Our employees are well trained and knowledgeable about HVAC systems and can help you to keep them working properly. We offer the latest energy-efficient systems in heating and air conditioning. Contact us today for an inspection and receive a free estimate or call us at (703) 481-3700 for more information on how we can help you feel comfortable in your home.

An home in Northern VA gets a quality HVAC Inspection

Spring Maintenance Checklist

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Routine home maintenance is crucial to maintaining your home comfort even as the weather gets warmer. It also allows you to catch any problems before they worsen and result in costly repairs. Get in touch with your local HVAC inspection company in Northern Virginia to help you detect problems before they worsen. 

At RA Dobson, our team adheres to the federal, state, and local government’s COVID-19 guidelines, implementing daily health checks on our technicians, wearing face masks, and providing contactless visits and quotes. If you require any HVAC or plumbing services, contact us to receive a free contactless estimate!

Here are a few items that should be on your spring maintenance checklist this year: 

Clean Your Ducts

Keeping your ducts clean on a regular basis, especially before spring, helps reduce allergens and allows you to breathe easier. With dirty air ducts, you could be breathing in fungi and bacteria. Prevent your allergies from getting out of hand with professional duct cleaning.

Maybe even consider installing an air cleaner to prevent pollutants from circulating throughout your home. At RA Dobson, our team receives high-level training and can help you determine which air purifier is right for you.

Check Your Heating and Cooling Unit

If your heating and cooling system experiences frequent breakdowns, then it will likely break down again, which could lead to emergency repairs and damages to your heating and cooling systems. Even if your system is a few years old, it still requires routine maintenance to function properly.

Clean Your Drains

Dirty drains are a common problem in many households. If your drains are clogged, drain slowly, or produce a pungent odor, then have a professional plumber take a look. Have your drains professionally cleaned to keep your home comfortable throughout the warmer months.

Generator Check Up

Before Northern Virginia’s hottest temperatures arrive, ensure your generator is functioning properly. An efficiently functioning generator will be able to handle any outages that take place during inclement weather and conditions.

Receive an HVAC Inspection, Routine Maintenance, & More in Northern Virginia

At RA Dobson, we are committed to helping you maintain your home comfort and safety with comprehensive spring maintenance and adhering to our COVID-19 safety protocols. By providing professionally trained HVAC inspection technicians that are dedicated to maintaining your home comfort, we ensure that you will experience ultimate comfort right away. 
We have served the Sterling, Virginia area for over 45 years, and you can trust us to provide efficient and affordable spring maintenance. Contact our team at (703) 481-3700 to receive a contactless quote today.

Furnace Repair Northern Virginia

When Should You Replace Your Furnace?

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Over the years, we start to recognize the “character” of our homes. It might include the most comfortable spots to sit and work or the adjustments needed for its layout and setup. Perhaps unconsciously, we also find its warm and cool spots: the best places to spend cold nights and which rooms always seem chilly. 

However, your home’s temperature patterns illustrate the state of its heating system. If the temperature shifts from room to room, or if you constantly adjust the thermostat, your home’s furnace may need replacement. In that case, reach out to R.A. Dobson, Northern Virginia’s top service company. Our team provides professional furnace repair and installation, HVAC maintenance, and plumbing repairs. And our customers rave about our heating and cooling services to boot. 

Below, we review some common furnace issues that call for maintenance or replacement: 

Basic Furnace Care

Along with boilers, furnaces are the most common kind of home heating system. To warm its home, a furnace blows heated air through ductwork and raises the overall temperature to the thermostat’s setting. Manufacturers rate every furnace’s ability via the Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) scale. 

Homeowners should replace their furnaces every twenty to thirty years. But, unless you built your own, you probably moved into a home that already had a furnace. Thus, you’ll have to find its user manual or look up its serial number to determine its age. 

If you need a new heating system, consider the variety of options on the market. For instance, our team recommends that you consider the benefits of heat pumps. Nevertheless, you can determine if you need a new heating system by watching for certain furnace problems.

Warning Signs

Your furnace may exhibit some obvious symptoms of breakdown. For example, its motor could bang, squeal, or buzz loudly as it weakens and falls apart. Likewise, visible signs of corrosion (including broken or rusted parts) speak to a need for maintenance. 

A defective furnace may also affect the conditions in your home. Noticeable temperature changes between rooms suggest that it struggles to heat them evenly. Also, if you constantly adjust your thermostat’s level, your system may struggle to maintain a steady temperature. 

Finally, a furnace that needs constant repairs may be at the end of its usefulness. If that describes yours, you should determine its age and whether it’s worth repairing. And, though seemingly unrelated, a dramatic rise in your energy bills without a change in your heat’s settings can signal a loss of efficiency.

Fixes & Replacements

If you believe that your heating is defective, request an R.A. Dobson service call before ordering a new system. Replacing a part – such as an air filter or thermostat – may fix the problem(s). Likewise, check our winter furnace checklist to ensure that your system is running correctly.

Keep in mind that newer-model furnaces can save significant money. High-efficiency furnaces have AFUE ratings between 90% and 98.5% – quite an upgrade from the 56-70% of old systems. Although it may be expensive upfront, a high-efficiency system could recoup its cost over a few years. 

Given the investment a furnace requires, you should ask R.A. Dobson for an estimate before installation. Happily, we provide free estimates for such service, and we’re currently offering a coupon for furnace installation on our website. 

Reliable and Affordable Furnace Repair Services in Northern Virginia

Whether you’re unsure or certain that your furnace needs replacement, our team at R.A. Dobson can help. We can inspect your system and then fix or replace it for you. Northern Virginia communities trust our professional furnace repair and installation, plumbing work, HVAC maintenance, and other services. Call us today at (703) 481-3700 or fill out our online form for a free estimate.

HVAC inspection Northern Virginia

3 Fall & Winter HVAC Maintenance Tips

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We’ve come to summer’s end, and the yearly rituals of fall have begun (though limited by COVID). Football season has restarted, everyone has pumpkin spiced coffee, and the evening cicadas have given way to crickets. Best of all, we can shut off our AC units and their costs. 

The cooler weather calls for another kind of indoor climate control: heating. So, while switching from one system to the other, all homeowners should check the performance of both. But inspecting an HVAC system is time-consuming and tricky; instead, why not schedule a professional HVAC inspection with R.A. Dobson? Every fall and winter, our expert technicians conduct HVAC inspections across Northern VA. Our clients call for our annual service and, in the long run, save money through routine care. 

Below, we outline how our HVAC inspections work and describe the basic upkeep that your system might receive: 

Scheduled Routine Inspections

The Department of Energy writes that professional checkups and repairs can improve your home’s energy efficiency. But some homeowners like to inspect their HVAC and heating systems themselves. In doing so, they may miss signs that our trained technicians know to look for. 

We’ve described what to expect during an HVAC inspection. In brief, our technician will start by spot-checking your system for obstructions (including dust, debris, and mold). They’ll also look for signs of deeper problems such as leaks, corrosion, rust, or loose wires. 

The technician will then check air filters, electrical switches, safety switches, motors, and gas pressure. This step-by-step process catches any potential problems and ensures that your system works smoothly. 

Vital Preventative Care

After the inspection, our technician will go about basic repairs. He or she may clean and/or replace parts, especially in systems that have not been serviced for several years. 

Some cleaning, such as changing an air filter, will be carried out easily. Our technician may also use a lubricant to ensure that parts function smoothly. However, if specific parts of the HVAC system need to be replaced, he or she may have to order it and return later for installation. 

Finally, to ensure your system functions as best as it can, the technician will test and adjust your HVAC’s electricity. They will also calibrate and adjust your home’s thermostat to establish an ideal indoor temperature. You can read more about thermostat options in our guide. 

Let The Pros Handle Major Repairs

Eventually, you will need a new HVAC (or heating) system. Even if your current system has no specific issues, its efficiency will decrease with age. Plus, modern air systems’ efficiency can be 20%-40% greater than systems produced ten years ago. 

If inspecting an HVAC system feels like a chore, installing one is an outright challenge. Contact your local experts at R.A. Dobson and let us take care of the installation for you. We’ve worked in HVAC for over 45 years, and we’ll ensure that your new system suits your needs. 

R.A. Dobson: Reliable, Reasonable HVAC Inspection Service Professionals 

As the leaves begin changing colors and we move into the fall, don’t forget to have your air systems looked at. Doing so can improve your home’s energy efficiency and catch potential problems before they turn into major ones. Many residents throughout Northern VA call R.A. Dobson for professional HVAC inspection and installation. We’re happy to offer you our expertise too. Call us today at (703) 481-3700 or fill out our online form to request a free estimate.

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When Do Your Air Ducts Need Cleaning?

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Due to the COVID-19 crisis and recent heatwaves, everyone has spent much of their summer indoors. And while watching the year’s finest season pass by can feel disappointing, at least we can relax in cool indoor air. Your home’s air system works hard, especially when it works almost constantly during the summer; don’t you want to ensure that it continues doing so properly? 

As we’ve discussed, routine inspections of your HVAC system can prevent major issues. This, in turn, saves you from the hassle and expense of replacing parts. But do you know what problems can arise in your heating and cooling system? Or what the warning signs of those problems are? At R.A. Dobson, we empower clients with our expertise, so that you will know when to call the pros for air quality inspection or excellent air cleaning service! This is why our customers throughout Sterling and Northern Virginia become repeat customers and why they refer us to others in need of HVAC services. 

The list below lays out the hazards that air systems face, as well as the signs you should watch out for:

Mold Growth

Conditions in every home differ. Those with allergies or chronic illness can be extra sensitive to irritants, like dust. However, given their daily usage and the constant prevalence of irritants, air ducts will always contain some amount of dust and other contaminants.

But one thing calls for immediate action: visible mold growth in air ducts. Both mold and mildew present health risks to occupants, especially residents with a compromised health status. And since many parts of a home air system cannot be easily accessed, you may be unable to see how much there is. 

Of course, only an expert can determine whether mold is present. If you suspect there’s mold in your air ducts, contact us for an inspection as soon as possible.

Rodent & Pest Infestation 

Although it is hair-raising to think about, air ducts provide ideal homes for all manner of insects and other pests. And beyond their obnoxious presence, these vermin bring in microbes, diseases, and other health concerns. Thus, you must be on the lookout for their presence. 

The most noxious sign will be a foul odor coming from the vents in your home: the smells of urine, feces, and rotting food. You may also see droppings appear in your air ducts. Given mice’s breeding speed, the sight of droppings should send you running for an exterminator. 

Another sign is the sound of wildlife in your air system (snuffles and movement coming from within your home’s walls). And though it may stem from other causes, a reduction in your air system’s efficiency may be a byproduct of infestation. 

Excessive Dust and Debris

As noted above, your air system will always contain some amount of dust. It can never be fully eliminated, though R.A. Dobson’s air purification installations can help to reduce the amount of dust in the air. But dust becomes a problem when it collects excessively inside your home’s ductwork. 

Signs of this include strange or musty smells in your house (such as when you first turn on your heater for the winter), which indicate a buildup of dust and dirt. You might also notice it floating in the air since dust in the ductwork also becomes dust in the air. 

Choose Professional Air Cleaning Services in Sterling, VA

If you want your air system cleaned, even without warning signs, reach out to the local experts at R.A. Dobson for an inspection. If we find anything, you can rest assured that our professional air cleaning service will treat your home with the care it deserves. Over the past 45+ years, folks in Sterling and across Northern Virginia have turned to R.A. Dobson for air system replacement, inspection, and installation. We offer the latest in energy-efficient heating and air conditioning technology. Call us today at (703) 481-3700 to request a free estimate or schedule a service!

HVAC maintenance Northern VA

Benefits of Scheduling a Routine HVAC Maintenance Check

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Whether you are sitting at home, cozying up with a hot chocolate in the chilly winter weather or inside cooling off from the hot summer sun, a well-maintained heating and cooling system in your Northern VA home can make a difference when it comes to in-home comfort. However, it’s also important to remember to check on your HVAC system for the seasons in between as well. 

You should plan to schedule an HVAC maintenance check at least twice a year in the fall and in the spring. Ideally, your maintenance checks should be scheduled before your HVAC system is used more frequently in the winter and summer seasons. At R.A. Dobson, we handle HVAC maintenance in Northern VA and can ensure the proper steps are taken to have your home ready for inclement weather conditions at any time throughout the year.

There are many benefits that come with a service contract, including: 

Longer HVAC System Lifespan

By regularly servicing your HVAC system, your team of professionals can put you and your family at ease. Experts can inspect your system and check up on any repairs that may save you from having to buy a whole new unit. 

Safety 

There are potential threats that come with an HVAC system that could affect you and your family’s health and wellbeing. By scheduling a maintenance check, you can avoid such issues. It’s better to be safe than sorry, so if there is any question you may have an issue with the system, contact an expert immediately. 

Savings on Energy Bills

Your energy bills are greatly impacted by the status of your HVAC system. If it looks like you are being charged too much (or even too little) on your energy bill, having your unit inspected can save you a lot of money and hassle in the long run. 

A More Reliable System

Getting caught in a heat wave with no AC is never a good time. If you notice that your HVAC system is prone to breakdowns, a service contract can save you a lot of trouble. Make sure you have a routine check of your HVAC system to avoid disasters like these. 

R.A. Dobson: Professional HVAC Maintenance in Northern VA

The last thing you want is to be caught in terrible weather without a functioning HVAC system. At R.A. Dobson, you can be sure that our team of professional technicians can handle your maintenance repairs. For professional HVAC maintenance in Northern VA, you can trust R.A. Dobson and their 45 years of experience in the industry. 

Contact R.A. Dobson today to find out more about how we can help your home stay comfortable this season. Don’t forget to take advantage of our seasonal deals too!

faucet installation Loudoun County VA

Money-Saving Heating & Cooling Solutions for Your Home

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A home’s heating, cooling, or plumbing system may need to be replaced or installed, especially if you want to save more by being energy-efficient and cost-effective. You want to remain certain that whatever keeps your home running is up-to-date and functioning as it should be. One of the best ways to keep your house running smoothly is to reconstruct the systems that are no longer effective and capable so that you can rest assured that your home is safe from unexpected damages. 

At R.A. Dobson, our team of certified professionals in HVAC services offers excellent faucet installation services at an affordable price. For over 40 years, we have been providing residents and businesses in Northern VA with unmatched HVAC and plumbing services, utilizing our years of knowledge and top-of-the-line equipment to ensure their plumbing systems are in the best condition possible. Below, we have a few suggestions on how you can increase energy efficiency in your plumbing as well as heating and cooling systems. 

Improve Your Plumbing’s Energy Efficiency

Making your home more energy efficient has not only become a big trend in the past years but for most, it has become a new way of life. There are lots of greener options to choose from that also help you save money in the long run: 

Choose Low-Flow 

Nowadays there are many low-flow toilets that come in a variety of styles and colors. Low-flow toilets are 20% more efficient than traditional toilets, which means that you will be saving money on your water bill each month. When you flush your toilet, it can range from 1.6 gallons to 8 gallons per flush whereas when you use a low-flow toilet each flush only uses 1.3 gallons of water. That is a lot of savings literally going down the toilet because as much as ⅓ of a household’s water usage comes from the toilet itself. Having a low-flow toilet also helps homeowners when they live in dryer places since you would need to be conscious about saving water anyway. 

Dual Flush Toilets

You have probably already seen these kinds of toilets where there are two buttons you can press: one for a low power flush that washes down liquids and then another button that’s for a full flush that rids the bowl of solids. About 3 ½ out of 5-6 daily flushes are just for liquid waste. When it comes to the number of times you flush the toilet, flushing it for only liquids can make a huge difference. 

When you think about the financial impact of toilets, the demand for eco-friendly plumbing and water conservation is a beneficial upgrade. It is a quick and easy way to update the plumbing system in your home and a dual flush conversion kits cost as little as $20! 

High efficiency/condensing boiler

A high-efficiency boiler achieves greater efficiency by consolidating water vapor. These condensing boilers save energy by being better at heating up water. Plus, there is a federal tax credit for their installation and there are also additional rebates from power companies in some states. 

Tankless Water Heater

Tankless water heaters are longer-lasting and smaller so when the time comes to finally pitch them, they fill up less of the landfills. This allows you some savings since you will not have to pay for a replacement. The other benefit that comes with having a tankless water heater is that it uses less natural gas. It also allows for more unlimited hot water, and its smaller size can take up less space. 

Solar Water Heater

These heaters use solar panels to provide energy to heat water in place of gas. They can be used in any climate and consumers can save more money by using them. 

Low Flow Shower Heads 

The greater the amount of water is pushed out from the pipe, then the more water pressure is being used. When you use a low flow shower head, you will use less water in the shower; therefore, you’ll save money in the long run. 

Faucet Installation 

Modern faucets have become more efficient. When thinking about plumbing, another green choice that you can make is choosing an energy-efficient faucet. Installing new faucets throughout your house can increase home value and help you lower the water usage. When you hire a company that helps you install your new faucet, they can also assess your plumbing diagnosis and inspection. 

R.A. Dobson: Quick & Easy Faucet Installation in Loudoun County, VA

Being energy efficient can help save you money. This is why you should hire a professional HVAC service to help perform a faucet installation service as soon as possible. At R.A. Dobson, our expert technicians will deliver and install your toilet or faucet quickly and easily. Contact us at 703-481-3700 for a free estimate today!