Archive for the HVAC Service Category

Have you ever noticed that extra setting on your heat pump labeled “Emergency Heat” or “Aux Heat”? Many homeowners in the Annapolis area wonder what it does and when they should use it. At FIXED! HVAC, we’re here to clear up any confusion and help you understand this critical feature. Let’s explore emergency heat, when to activate it, and how to maintain your system for optimal performance. Understanding Heat Pump Emergency Heat What Is Heat Pump Emergency Heat? Your heat pump’s primary job is to transfer heat from the outside air into your home. However, your heat pump may need

Heating your home during a freezing Winter in Annapolis can bring bone-chilling cold that tests the limits of your heating system. When temperatures dip below freezing, you need a reliable heat source to keep your family safe and comfortable. At FIXED! HVAC, we specialize in heat pumps, boilers, and furnaces, and we’re here to help you understand common issues and share tips for staying warm even when your system isn’t cooperating. Challenges with Heat Pumps in Freezing Temperatures Reduced Efficiency Heat pumps work by transferring heat from the outdoor air to your home. However, when outdoor temperatures plunge, there’s less

Noticing a burning smell coming from your vents can be quite unsettling. It’s a situation that no homeowner wants to experience, especially when you’re relying on your heating system to keep you warm. However, understanding the potential causes can help you address the issue promptly and ensure your home’s safety. Let’s explore some possible problems. Dust Burning Off Heating Elements One of the most common reasons for a burning smell is dust accumulation on your heating elements or heat exchanger. When your heater hasn’t been used for a while, dust and debris can settle on these components. Therefore, when you

Forced air heating systems are a popular choice for many homeowners. But like any system, they come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages. Are you thinking about upgrading your home’s heating system? Let’s dive into the pros and cons to help you make an informed decision. What Is a Forced Air Heating System? First things first—what exactly is a forced air heating system? In simple terms, it’s a system that uses air as its heat transfer medium. The system heats the air in a furnace and then uses ductwork and vents to distribute warm air throughout your home.

Poor air flow, ohhh no! Your air conditioning is on full blast, but you notice hardly any air blowing out of the vents. This lack of air can be frustrating, especially as the late summer heat continues. However, there are several reasons why this could be happening, and most of them have a simple fix. Weak airflow from your air conditioning system is a somewhat common issue homeowners face. However, with proper maintenance and timely repairs, these low-airflow problems are avoidable. Regular maintenance is the key to preventing issues; if you find yourself in this situation, there are a few

You should add a second air conditioning system in several situations and circumstances. It may seem counterintuitive, but adding a second system could save you money in the long run.  Balance & Temperature Control The main reason for adding a second air conditioning system is to balance out the temperature in a home. Two-story older homes are the prime candidates for unbalanced temperatures. The upstairs is traditionally hot, and the downstairs is chilly, making both uncomfortable.  While you continuously run an air conditioning system to try to cool down the warmer areas, the cool area just gets cooler, and the

As Winter turns to Spring and the days get warmer, the familiar household argument arises: when should you turn on the air conditioning? In homes across the country, couples, families, and roommates start to battle over the temperature control unit. Let’s put this disagreement to rest. The Ideal Time Before turning on your air conditioning unit, consider two factors: the temperature outside and the temperature inside your home. Switch it on too soon, and you’ll incur extra unnecessary expenses, but wait too long, and members of your household will have to live in discomfort.  The best option is to wait

What is a SEER rating anyway? SEER is an acronym for seasonal energy efficiency ratio. Not exactly a clear explanation. Let’s dig a little deeper. In simple terms it is a measure of how much electricity it takes to remove a given amount of heat, given a specific combination of system components. It is very much like the fuel efficiency of your car. Determining SEER Rating In order to determine the SEER rating of any given combination of equipment, a series of tests are performed by the AHRI (Air conditioning Heating and Refrigeration Institute). A SEER rating is then determined

Why you should consider whole house humidifiers? As we move into the colder winter months our home’s humidity begins to fall. Severe dryness can lead to itchy dry skin for us. Our home suffers contraction of the wood and leather products. Wallpaper can lose its adhesion, instruments will go out of tune. Don’t forget the stores of wine! Extended periods of time in dry air can compromise the corks! While the vast majority of us are not so concerned with the condition or our corks, our overall comfort is a concern. Thankfully we have the technology to amend the dry

Thermostats were once the simple and mechanical devices but are still the control center of our home’s heating and air conditioning systems. Older mercury bulb thermostats, the former mainstay of design, have been phased out long ago (2007).  This was because of  the environmental impact of Mercury waste in our landfills and waterways. Rest assured, if we at Fixed! HVAC Service replace any controls devices containing mercury they will be disposed of properly. Modern Thermostats With all things, technological development has improved and made our lives more comfortable and connected. Today’s thermostats come in a variety of types and varying