Tag Archives: HVAC maintenance

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5 Ways to Make Your HVAC System More Efficient

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Heating and cooling bills are among the largest expenses in most homes, so everyone wants to minimize these costs. But how can you increase your HVAC system’s efficiency? Some proven methods include adjusting your thermostat to the season, closing curtains and blinds, and keeping vents unobstructed. Most importantly, hire a professional for a thorough HVAC inspection annually to ensure your system continues functioning at high capacity.

R.A. Dobson is a heating, air conditioning, and plumbing company that operates in Ashburn, VA. As a 2nd-generation family business, we understand the ins and outs of owning and managing a home. This knowledge helps us provide the outstanding support, guidance, and customer service that our satisfied customers report. For more information on how we can help you, contact us at (703) 481-3700.

Below, we outline 5 ways to make your HVAC system more efficient:

Adjust Your Thermostat to the Season

As the outdoor climate warms and cools throughout the year, make a note to adjust your thermostat accordingly. During the summer, reset the indoor temperature to between 5-8 degrees higher than your “normal” level. In the winter, reset the temperature in the opposite direction.

You might find a programmable thermostat helpful in this effort. You can use its capabilities to automatically adjust the temperature for different seasons, times of day (like when you’re away from home), and even rooms in your home.

2. Maintain Accurate Thermostat Readings

Consider installing separate thermostats on different levels of your home so that each can provide as accurate a reading as possible. Doing so not only increases your HVAC system’s efficiency but also allows you to administer different temperatures at different levels of your home. Programmable thermostats can automatically accomplish this zoning effect for optimal energy efficiency.

Also, refrain from placing heat-producing appliances close to your thermostat. Doing so could compel your HVAC system to cool your home further than you wish. During the winter, a proximate heat-producing appliance to your thermostat would make your HVAC system use less energy but also make your thermostat inaccurate.

3. Close Your Curtains & Blinds

During the summer, close your curtains and blinds to prevent sunlight from heating your home’s interior. This effect occurs in the same way that the sun heats a car. By closing your curtains and blinds on hot summer days, you block the sun’s rays. Doing so can help you save on air conditioning costs.

Additionally, closing your curtains and blinds during the winter prevents cold air from seeping inside through the windows. Only open your curtains in the winter when sunlight is coming through and angle your blinds up towards the ceiling.

4. Use Heat-Producing Appliances Sparingly & Keep Vents Unblocked

Heat-producing appliances, like the oven and dryer, generate warm air. So, using them during the hottest time of the day forces your HVAC system to work harder to cool your house. Try to plan out how you use heat-producing appliances accordingly.

Also, keep your air vents unobstructed so that your HVAC system can do its job. This requires moving various items, like furniture and toys, away from all indoor supply vents. Doing so will promote steady airflow and prevent your system from overworking.

5. Hire a Professional HVAC Company

Finally, employ a service company to provide maintenance as well as parts repair and replacement for your HVAC system. A capable HVAC professional can handle all your system’s complex needs, including cleaning your outdoor condenser unit, vacuuming indoor vents, clearing your drain line, and insulating exposed ductwork.

HVAC inspection Leesburg VA

R.A. Dobson: Expert HVAC Inspections Available in Leesburg, VA

R.A. Dobson provides professional HVAC inspections to homeowners in the Leesburg, VA, area. From HVAC systems to air cleaners, we provide our customers with systems that keep their homes comfortable. We also offer a 1-year service warranty and respect all manufacturer warranties. For an HVAC service provider that you can trust, contact R.A. Dobson at (703) 481-3700 today.

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When to Repair and When to Replace Your HVAC System

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A reliable HVAC system is essential to comfortable indoor living. Moreover, regular maintenance helps keep that system in optimal condition. But what should you do when your system ceases to work? To determine whether your HVAC system requires a simple repair or full-scale replacement, consider its age and operating status as well as unusual changes in its behavior. A trustworthy HVAC company in your area can determine what your system needs.

R.A. Dobson offers HVAC repair and replacement services in Ashburn, VA. A second-generation family company operating since 1975, we offer a 1-year service warranty and honor all manufacturer warranties. Our trained and certified technicians provide outstanding service and aim for customer satisfaction. Contact us today at (703) 481-3700!

Below, we consider several questions, the answers to which indicate whether you need an HVAC repair or replacement:

  1. How Old Is Your HVAC System?

Air conditioners, furnaces, and heat pumps all have a lifespan of about 15-20 years. Yet their exact lifespan depends on each system’s environment, brand, model, maintenance, and use. 

You should consider units at less than half the age of their life expectancy worth repairing once. However, further breakdowns indicate a need for replacement. You should also replace units that require repairs amounting to more than half the cost of replacement. 

Additionally, outdated models can pose problems even if they still operate properly. For instance, furnace models from before 2015 have a lower efficiency compliance level than models from after, which can result in higher energy bills. Also, air conditioners that use Freon should be replaced, as the US no longer allows the production of Freon.

  1. Is It Operating Effectively?

Inconsistent temperatures throughout your home may signal that you should replace your HVAC system. As your system ages, it loses its ability to create an even temperature throughout your home.

Some issues—such as low fluid levels, cracked ducts, and clogged filters—can often be repaired with ease. Likewise, issues with your thermostat can be corrected readily. Whatever the problem, have your system inspected to determine the source of the problem.

  1. Has Your Energy Bill Increased?

Your energy bill should remain consistent aside from slight variations between seasons. If you notice your energy bill steadily increasing, you may have a broken or outdated system. If repairs or a replacement system fails to solve the problem, you may need to have your home inspected for air leaks.

  1. Have You Noticed Unusual Signs?

Older units often make unusual noises that should be inspected. Screeching and grinding, for instance, indicate that your system may need replacement.

Other unusual signs, including increased dust and humidity as well as strange odors, come from problems that can be repaired. Do not overlook these issues, however, as they may spring from a gas leak, burning wire, or something else serious. Better to take precautions than to deal with a broken-down HVAC system.

R.A. Dobson: A Leader Among HVAC Companies in Ashburn, VA

HVAC Companies Ashburn VA

Rely on R.A. Dobson, a leader among HVAC companies in Ashburn, VA. We offer regular repairs and installations for furnaces, air conditioners, and heat pumps. Select from several energy-efficient Carrier products, along with quality craftsmanship, to ensure your family’s comfort. Contact us at (703) 481-3700 for a free estimate. 

Smoke Near An Ashburn VA Home That May Need Quality Air Cleaning Services

The Effects of Humid/Poor Indoor Air

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Some effects of highly humid and poor air quality are dizziness, fatigue, irritated lungs, nose, and throat; coughing, wheezing, and other cold and flu-like symptoms. Of course, there are more serious effects and illnesses that can occur over time if your poor air quality isn’t addressed in time. A good start would be to work with a quality air cleaning service to clear out your ventilation system in order to improve the quality of the air flowing through them. 

RA Dobson is an established heating, cooling, and plumbing service provider that has worked throughout Ashburn, VA, for over 40 years. These decades of service assure our team’s skills in HVAC and plumbing installation, maintenance, and repair. In addition, we provide high-quality home appliances that are lasting and affordable to all our customers. If you are in need of a better heating, cooling, or plumbing system, talk to us at RA Dobson. 

Below, we discuss the effects humid and poor quality indoor air has on inhabitants and how we can help eliminate them: 

How Humid Air Can Affect Your Health

Humidity has several direct and indirect effects on indoor air quality, as well as on a person’s individual health over a long period of time. Firstly, a long period of humidity, combined with high temperatures, can cause the body to overheat, which could lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke. This is because high humidity hinders the sweat from your body from properly evaporating so that your body temperature can cool down.

Additionally, humid environments support the growth of mold, mildew, and fungi, which can cause serious respiratory problems if left unaddressed for too long. High humidity keeps germs, bacteria, and other contaminants in the air longer than in dry air environments, making it easier for them to spread indoors. Excessive humidity can damage your family’s health, so make sure you hire an indoor air improvement expert to resolve it as soon as possible.  

How Poor Quality Indoor Air Can Affect Your Health

Poor-quality indoor air is produced from a wide variety of sources—both from within your home and outside of it. Some are natural pollutants, while others are the byproducts of chemicals and functioning appliances. Some influences on indoor air quality include: 

  • Cleaning supplies
  • Paint
  • Insect-repellent or insecticide products 
  • Cigarette smoke 
  • Carbon monoxide from heating elements (i.e. water heater or furnace)
  • Pet dander 
  • Radon

On the other hand, there are also a few outdoor influences on indoor air quality, such as: 

  • Remnant smoke from a burning fireplace 
  • Pollen 
  • Mold/Fungi spores 

All of these different sources, one way or another, enter your ventilation system and move through your home, gradually affecting you and your loved ones’ health over time. Some of these health effects can be minor, including:

  • Irritated throat, nose, and eyes
  • Headaches 
  • Fatigue 
  • Dizziness or light-headedness 

However, these effects can end up developing more serious conditions, such as: 

  • Asthma 
  • Heart disease 
  • Respiratory disease 
  • Cancer

All of these issues mentioned above have been found to have strong connections to spending extensive amounts of time in buildings and indoor spaces with poor indoor air quality. Thus, while its effects are subtle and gradual, maintaining healthy indoor air quality in your home is vital to the safety and wellness of you and your family. 

What RA Dobson Can Do to Help

As a well-established and highly-experienced HVAC company, RA Dobson is well-versed in helping residents and businesses take care of their indoor air quality. Our team provides detailed indoor air evaluations, inspecting our customers’ homes thoroughly to discover, and resolve every influencing factor on air quality. We also provide home and workplace services, such as: 

  • Regular scheduled maintenance on your HVAC system to make it more effective and efficient, improving indoor air quality. 

RA Dobson: The Best Air Cleaning Service in Ashburn, Virginia 

Indoor air quality has a subtle but significant influence on the health of individuals, families, and employees, as most Americans spend far more time indoors than outdoors. Thus, in order to prevent the potential outcomes of poor indoor air quality, it’s important to find a reputable air cleaning service to work with, like RA Dobson. Across Ashburn, Virginia, we’ve helped residential and commercial customers keep their air clean, comfortable, and efficient through top-of-the-line HVAC products and excellent installation and maintenance. Contact us at (703) 481-3700 to learn more and get a free estimate on duct cleaning and air purifier installation today.   

Ashburn VA Building Ductwork and Ventilation That May Need top HVAC Repair Services

HVAC Awareness: Parts & Their Lifespans

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Homeowners who have a malfunctioning HVAC system should research it and determine whether a professional HVAC repair or replacement offers better value. While the lifespan of any given part depends on its system’s type, daily usage, and maintenance, the industry has some general guidelines. For instance, compressors typically last between 10-15 years, furnaces 16-20 years, and window units 8-10 years (most models last 2-5 more years if maintained).

For all your HVAC questions, repairs, and installations, reach out to RA Dobson. We are the Ashburn, VA, region’s provider of heating, cooling, and plumbing services. A second-generation family business with over 45 years of industry experience, we have a deep connection to our community and customers. Our team offers a wide range of services that includes heat pump installation, duct cleaning, thermostat repair, and more. To learn more or get a free estimate, contact us today.

Below, we outline HVAC system types, parts, and their expected lifespans:

Air Conditioner Components

All home HVAC systems operate by exchanging interior and exterior air. The air conditioning function, in particular, is designed to pull warm air from inside and release it outside. It does so using the following parts: 

  • Evaporator – housed within the interior-facing portion of the unit, the evaporator cools indoor air using a copper tubing coil and aluminum fins.
  • Condenser – also made of a copper tubing coil, the exterior-facing condenser releases the unit’s collected heat outside.
     
  • Compressor – a pump that moves refrigerant fluid between the evaporator and condenser as well as their copper tubing.
  • Refrigerant fluid – a liquid pumped into the evaporator, where it pulls heat from the interior air by evaporating, to the condenser, where it releases heat and reverts back to a liquid.

Heating Components

In addition to their cooling capacities, many HVAC systems include heating functionality. Heating applies the air transfer principle, outlined above, in reverse: warm air is pulled from outside and released inside. However, when outdoor air becomes colder than the indoors, the HVAC system warms incoming air using one of two devices: 

  • Furnace – using natural gas, oil, or electricity, furnaces heat the air from outside then release it into ductwork that distributes it throughout a structure.
  • Boiler – instead of heating air, boilers heat water into steam that then warms the interior.

Heat pumps and geothermal heating systems are also used in homes, but they are far less common than furnaces and boilers.

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The Lifespan of HVAC Systems & Parts

So, how long do all these systems (and their components) last? As mentioned above, the lifespan of each depends on its system’s daily usage and design. However, the following guidelines can give you a sense of their endurance: 

  • Central HVAC – the “traditional” form of heating and cooling, central HVAC systems combine heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) functionalities. Each element of these systems has a different lifespan: furnaces tend to last 16-20 years while central air conditioners last 12-15. On the other hand, boilers last 10-15 years.
  • Air conditioning window units – estimates for window unit lifespans vary widely. Some sources place it at an average of 10 years while others 8 years. However, all agree that you can extend your unit’s life with regular maintenance.
  • Air conditioner parts – on top of unit lifespans, individual parts in air conditioners can fail. Compressors, for instance, last between 10-15 years. However, this means that you can replace a part without replacing the whole unit.

HVAC Repair and Maintenance Services Available in Ashburn, VA

While HVAC systems come in many types that contain myriad components, learning about them pays off. You’ll know when to call for HVAC repair services and when you need a full HVAC system replacement. No matter the situation, turn to RA Dobson for all your home services needs. We specialize in heating, air conditioning, and plumbing services but also offer support with generators, humidifiers, and more. We’ve served the Ashburn, VA, area for 45 years, and we look forward to continuing our relationship with this community. For more information or to schedule a service, call us today at (703) 481-3700 or fill out our online form.

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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.

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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.

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3 Types of Thermostats to Consider for Your Home

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While your HVAC system requires each part to create a comfortable and healthy indoor climate, its thermostat holds a particularly special place. It’s the point of contact where you directly interact with your HVAC, where you can control your home’s temperature and, depending on the system, its humidity. 

It’s important to have a functional thermostat, but the latest models go even further and include “smart” features as well. If you’re looking for the best in heating and cooling appliances, turn to R.A. Dobson. We provide premium thermostat installation services as well as affordable HVAC system repair and maintenance. Customers throughout Northern VA come to us for their heating and cooling needs. 

Here are three types of available thermostats and a few models we recommend: 

Non-Programmable Thermostats

Before we go into the feature-rich thermostat types, let’s talk about the simplest option: non-programmable thermostats. This type of thermostat simply turns on, turns off, and sets your HVAC system’s temperature. They’re also known as “manual thermostats,” since users adjust them manually rather than program or remotely adjust them (as with more advanced models). 

R.A. Dobson provides the highest quality thermostats from Carrier, a trusted brand in the heating and cooling industry. Their primary thermostat that we offer is the Carrier Comfort™ Non-Programmable Thermostat. It’s an easy-to-install, basic system with a digital screen and manual controls. 

Programmable Thermostats

One notch above non-programmable thermostats, programmable thermostats boast many of the same functions but include a few useful tweaks. They are called “programmable” because they can adjust themselves according to your pre-programmed settings. 

Certain models only allow you to program two different settings that the thermostat will switch between. This might include one temperature set for weekdays and another for weekends, or days and nights. Other, more advanced, programmable thermostats allow you to set a different temperature for each day of the week (and even for certain times of each day). 

The Carrier Performance™ Edge® provides enhanced functionality at an affordable price. All models manage temperature, humidity, ventilation, indoor air quality, and more. The Performance™ Edge® Relative Humidity Programmable Thermostat can also incorporate additional climate systems such as a heat pump or furnace. 

“Smart” Thermostats 

Finally, the most advanced thermostats available are those with “smart” technology functions, which provide the highest levels of control and accessibility. As with programmable types, smart thermostats can control temperature, airflow, humidity, and other elements of your HVAC system. Smart thermostats can also affect multiple rooms or living areas within your home or workplace differently. Thus, you can set different temperatures for each area from one system. 

As with a programmable thermostat, a smart thermostat can schedule temperatures to rise or lower throughout each day. Moreover, most models have Wi-Fi functionality and can connect to your smartphone or tablet. This gives you remote access to your HVAC system anywhere with an Internet connection.  

At R.A. Dobson, we provide one of the best smart thermostat systems available: the Carrier Infinity® Remote Access Touch Control Thermostat. Along with all the features of a programmable thermostat, the Infinity Thermostat can connect to any smart device. With it, not only will you get the latest in thermostat technology but also a high-quality product that will last for years to come. 

R.A. Dobson: Quality Thermostat Installations in Northern VA

Although these are just some of the thermostat types available, they provide an overview of what’s on the market now. At R.A. Dobson, we always ensure that our customers get the heating and cooling products that fulfill their needs and stay within their budget. We also provide customers with our technical expertise in HVAC services such as efficient thermostat installation, professional plumbing repairs, and more. With 45 years of experience, we have the knowledge and skill to ensure your home or business gets the quality of service you deserve. Contact us today at (703) 481-3700 or fill out our form and get a free estimate for one of our services.

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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!