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Air Conditioning

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5 common ducted air conditioning issues

By | Air Conditioning

Ducted air conditioning is a highly effective and convenient way to heat all cool a home or building, allowing occupants to achieve the perfect temperature, every time.

Photo by: Apex air conditioning

While ducted air conditioning is one of the best options when it comes to heating and cooling, there are still some common issues that ducted air conditioning may face. Check out the five most common ducted air conditioning maintenance issues.

 

Air loss

If the connections within the ductwork of a ducted air conditioning system are not properly aligned, they can become loose. This might allow warm or cool air to escape quickly. Not only will this issue cause air loss, but it can also bring harmful gases from the outdoors inside through the air conditioning system. If you start to notice uneven room temperatures throughout your home, as well as super high energy bills, your ducted unit may have a significant air loss problem. The great news is, it can be easily fixed.

Dirty ducts

If there are large or small gaps in the air ducts, impurities and debris can be sucked up through the ducts. An overload of such impurities can adversely affect the indoor air quality, which poses a risk of eye or nasal allergies. If you have a ducted air conditioning system, make sure you hire a professional to clean them before dirt builds up too much.

Restricted flow

Sometimes if an object gets lodged in an air duct, it can stop air from flowing through with ease. This may also be the case if a duct is crushed, torn or twisted due to some kind of external damage. The biggest issue with the restricted flow is the effect it can have on your energy bills, as well as a decreased lifespan of the system. If you notice any damage or think something might be lodged, call a professional straight away.

Poor insulation

Insulation is not a major concern during the summer. However, heated air distributed through a ducted system during the winter months can lose a significant amount of energy to cold environments if there is little or poor-quality insulation. To make air insulation more efficient, you should contact a professional air conditioning technician such as HunterCON will help ensure that your air ducts work well, increasing efficiency.

Poor ductwork design

The poor-quality design of a ducted air conditioning system may lead to massive inefficiencies. A ducted system that is too large for a small home or building will certainly lead to significant energy losses. Conversely, a ducted system that is too small, will be forced to work much harder to distribute air and control room temperatures and will not be as effective. It is essential that you choose highly qualified professionals when installing a ducted system to ensure that the design is of the highest quality.

Contact HunterCON today

HunterCON is a fully licensed electrical and air conditioning specialists located in Sydney’s Inner West, servicing the greater metropolitan area, including the Eastern Suburbs, Lower North Shore and South West. If you have any questions about ducted air conditioning or would like to book a quote for repairs, installation or maintenance, contact HunterCON today. With over nine years of experience, we pride ourselves on providing air-con and electrical services of the highest quality.

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Air Conditioning Breakdowns FIX

7 reasons air conditioning units are a great option for any home

By | Air Conditioning

When it comes to cooling a home, many people wonder what option will work best for them without costing the earth. The variety of options can often seem overwhelming.

Air Conditioning Breakdowns FIX
At HunterCON we passionately provide high-quality air conditioning systems. Today we present seven reasons why an air conditioning system is a great option for your home.

 

Affordability

One of the advantages of buying an air conditioning unit is that they are very affordable when compared to other cooling and heating methods. Not only is the initial outlay affordable, but so too are the ongoing costs associated with running an air conditioning unit.

Energy Efficiency

For many people, energy efficiency is a very important consideration. If you want your home to remain cool for as long as possible with minimal damage to the cost of energy, an air conditioning unit is certainly your best option. Furthermore, units can carry specific energy efficiency ratings, so you can choose the perfect unit to suit your needs.

Easy to install

The installation process for an air conditioning unit is relatively easy. While the installation process will differ from model to model, set up is usually straightforward and can be performed quickly and easily. You may choose to install the unit by yourself by following the instructions or alternatively hire a qualified professional to help you out.

Versatility

Air conditioning units can be used in a variety of various places inside and outside of your home. You can use it in a non-permanent housing such as a home you are renting, and can easily take it with you when you move. Furthermore, they can be installed in a variety of spaces such as bedrooms, kitchens, studios, gyms, theatres and offices.

Variety

There are a variety of options when is comes to the type of air conditioning unit you choose to install. Different brands offer various levels of cost-effectiveness and energy efficiency and some will have a much longer life than others.

Features

There are a variety of options when is comes to the type of air conditioning unit you choose to install. Different brands offer various levels of cost-effectiveness and energy efficiency and some will have a much longer life than others.

Compact

Air conditioning units are relatively compact and will not take up too much space in a room. While some units are much bigger than others, they are usually designed to take as little space and are not visually invasive.

Contact HunterCON today

HunterCON is a fully licensed electrical and air conditioning specialists located in Sydney’s Inner West, servicing the greater metropolitan area, including the Eastern Suburbs, Lower North Shore and South West.

If you have any questions about air conditioning units, or would like to book a quote for repairs, installation or maintenance, contact HunterCON today. With over 9 years of experience, we pride ourselves on providing air-con and electrical services of the highest quality.

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HunterCon and COVID-19: What you need to know

By | Air Conditioning

Over the past few months, the entire world has been shaken by the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, an infectious disease which causes respiratory illness much like the flu.


In recent weeks we have been told to isolate at home while businesses all over the country close their doors. It has become evident that the rules surrounding hiring tradespeople such as electricians and plumbers are very unclear. Let’s take a closer look at how COVID-19 will impact HunterCon.

 

Is HunterCON open?

Whether a business stays open or not will depend on whether they are an essential service. What does this mean? Essential services refer to a specific class of occupations that have been legislated by a government as essential to societal functioning and as such will not close. HunterCon is considered an essential service and as such, is able to remain open throughout the Coronavirus pandemic, so long as government regulations do not change. So, if you have any air conditioning and electrical repairs and maintenance, you can most certainly rely on HunterCon.

NSW Public Health guidelines

All businesses which remain open, including essential services are legally required to follow stringent the NSW Public Health Guidelines. Furthermore, all staff must practise good hygiene and keep at a safe distance from one another. In taking these precautions, HunterCon can assure they are operating lawfully, while also protecting the safety of both our staff and valued customers. 

If you need a tradesperson…

If you require a tradesperson of any kind and you have any concerns about COVID-19, you can check to see if your tradesperson has a COVID-19 policy or guidelines their workers must follow. Most will be able to offer contactless payments, wear gloves and masks, and take any other precaution they can. It is very important to note that you should also not hire a tradesperson if you or another person in your household has been sick. If someone in your household has contracted COVID-19, you will have to wait until they have been cleared of the virus before any trades can enter your home. It is your responsibility to advise your tradesperson if there is anyone in self-isolation, quarantine or positive cases of COVID-19 in your household so that they can proceed in accordance with both business policy and the law. Furthermore, always maintain good hygiene and safe distancing measures.  

If you have any more questions about how COVID-19 will affect HunterCon, or if you are seeking a quote for electrical installations, repairs, or general maintenance, please do not hesitate to get in touch today. With over 9 years of experience, we pride ourselves on providing air-con and electrical services of the highest quality. 

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Should You Repair or Replace Your Split System Air Conditioner

Air conditioning tips that will save you money

By | Air Conditioning

Everyone wants to stay cool in the summer and warm in the winter, and a high-quality air conditioning unit is the perfect way to create a comfortable climate in your home.

Should You Repair or Replace Your Split System Air Conditioner
While the initial outlay may be costly, there are several things that you can do to save money on your air conditioning bill all year round! Check out our tips and tricks below.

 

Maintain your thermostat

It is always a good idea to learn how to use your thermostat properly and in a way which saves you money. It is far more energy-efficient, and therefore, economical to set the thermostat at a comfortable, mid-range temperature rather than pumping it up high as soon as you feel hot. Allowing the system to steadily decrease the temperature uses less energy and places less of a strain on your air conditioner system. As a result, you’ll end up with some extra dollars in your pocket.

Look after the refrigerant 

The refrigerant in your air conditioner is important in allowing your AC system to run smoothly and effectively. If the refrigerant is not properly charged, it can damage the compressor and trigger an expensive repair. This can also increase your energy use as the system is not operating at optimum efficiency. If you notice that the vents are discharging room temperature air, even after the system has been running for at least fifteen minutes, you may need your refrigerant charging. If that doesn’t seem to be the problem with your unit, you may also need a top-up if the system has had a leak.

Clean your coils

The condenser coils on the outside units can easily become clogged up with dirt, dust and other debris which make your AC unit work harder to pump out cool air, increasing energy consumption and making your bill extra pricey. It is well worth checking if there is any dirt or garden debris clogging up the coils to improve airflow and help the system operate more efficiently. If you find that the coils are clogged, be sure to clean them as soon as possible.

Clean and replace your filters

Similarly to the coils of an Ac unit, filters can become clogged with dirt and debris. While filtering these particles from the system is the primary function of this component, a dirty filter becomes almost useless and can force the system to work harder to maintain the temperature. Most manufacturers recommend that filters are changed every four to eight weeks. However, you may be able to extend the lifespan of your filters by cleaning them. Taking out the filter and removing any lint and other large debris as regularly as possible will not only increase the life of your filters but will also make your AC as energy-efficient as possible. 

If you follow these handy tips, you’ll be sure to save money on your electricity bills and feel comfortable in your home all year long. If you have any questions about getting the most out of your air conditioner or are looking for a quote for electrical installations, repairs, or general maintenance, please do not hesitate to get in touch with HunterCON today. With over nine years of experience under our belt, we pride ourselves on providing air-con and electrical services of the highest quality. Get in touch with us today.

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Criteria for Choosing the Best Air Conditioning

Why should you choose a wall-mounted AC system?

By | Air Conditioning

When it comes to choosing an AC system, there are so many different options.  From complex ducted air conditioning to simple window AC units, there is a different opportunity to suit the unique needs of every customer.

Criteria for Choosing the Best Air Conditioning
Today, let’s take a closer look at wall-mounted split system air conditioners and their many benefits.

 

What is a wall-mounted AC unit?

Wall-mounted, split system AC units,  are the most popular type of air conditioning units for homes and are designed to cool and/or heat either small or large residential areas. A split air conditioner consists of an outdoor unit and an indoor unit. The outdoor unit is installed on or near the exterior wall of the room that you wish to cool. This unit houses the compressor, condenser coil and the expansion coil or capillary tubing. The sleek-looking indoor unit contains the cooling coil, a long blower and an air filter. If you require multiple rooms or various room temperatures, multi-split systems function the same as a split system; however, comprise of a single outdoor unit connected to multiple independent indoor units. Let’s explore why wall-mounted AC systems are an excellent choice for your property.

Affordability

Wall-mounted air conditioning systems tend to be one of the most economical options for those looking for a cost-effective solution to air conditioning needs. While window units or even portable units appear to be far cheaper, split systems will save money significantly in the long run, due to their increased energy efficiency. Although centralised HVAC systems tend to offer lower running costs, when you factor in the initial outlay for installation, a wall-mounted unit is often the most affordable option.

Aesthetics

For many, the aesthetics of their home or building is an important factor. The sleek design of the new wall air conditioner means that it can be easily placed in almost any room and look great. Modern wall mounted units are designed to be slimmer and smaller than their older counterparts and far more aesthetically pleasing than bulky window and portable units. Unlike central HVAC systems that can require considerable disruption for installation, a wall-mounted unit causes very little damage to decor and aesthetics during installation.

Variety

Another great benefit of wall mounted air conditioning units is that there is a great variety of options available. Many reputable and established manufacturers offer a range of wall-mounted appliances, in different sizes, capacities and efficiencies. Many models also feature timers and other advanced features to allow you to maximise energy savings and reduce your electricity bills even in the height of summer.

While wall-mounted split systems are great, each possible air conditioning system has a number of advantages and disadvantages which are important to weigh up before you make a decision. If you have any questions about which AC is right for you, or are looking for a quote for electrical installations, repairs, or general maintenance, please do not hesitate to get in touch with HunterCON today.

With over nine years of experience under our belt, we pride ourselves on providing air-con and electrical services of the highest quality. Get in touch with us today.

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How to maintain HVAC filters

By | Air Conditioning, Maintenance

While filters can make our life easier in a huge number of ways, they also play an important role in the functioning and efficiency of your air conditioning unit.


It is important to use fresh HVAC filters for your aircon to run efficiently and without unnecessary exertion. But how do you check if your filters in good shape?

 

Buy the right HVAC filter

When you go shopping for HVAC filters, you will realise there are a variety of shapes and sizes of filters. Check your AC unit manual to figure out which shape and size you need to buy. Locate the manual and make a note of the make and model number. If the manual is missing, the make and model should be visible on the ac unit. It is important to remember that purchasing a filter which is too small or large can result in gaps that allow dust and debris to pass through, which can potentially burn out your HVAC system.

Checking your HVAC filter

If you want to check whether your HVAC filter needs replacing, follow the subsequent instructions: 

  1. Make sure your unit is turned off
  2. Lift the lid of your air conditioner.
  3. Check to see if your filter is damaged or needs reconditioning. You may notice a build-up of dust and debris.
  4. Clean your filters. If it is the first time removing the filter from your unit, follow the manual instructions. If the damage isn’t too bad, use a vacuum for a thorough clean. If it appears to be very clogged, scrub it under warm water and ensure it is completely dry before placing it back.
  5. If the damage is too much for cleaning, replace your filter. Do this by carefully removing the access panels, removing the filter and replacing it with a new one. Make sure the arrow on the outside of the filter is pointing in the same direction as the airflow. 

How much maintenance does your HVAC filter need?

Regular cleaning of your AC Unit and its filters is an important step for prolonging the life of your air conditioner. It is a good rule of thumb to change your HVAC filters every 45 to 60 days. However, if you suffer from allergies or have pets, you may need to change more frequently, especially during the summer months.

If you are confused or unsure about how to maintain your AC unit, or would like to know more about installation or maintenance of electrical items, please don’t hesitate to give us a call. With over nine years of experience under our belt, we pride ourselves on providing air-con and electrical services of the highest quality. Get in touch with us today.

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Air conditioning zoning

By | Air Conditioning

In our previous blog posts, we have discussed the many benefits of ducted air conditioning systems and have touched on the ability to create optimum comfort in your home through the process of ‘zoning.’

Photo by: Apex air conditioning

But what is zoning and how can you zone your home in a way which achieves your heating and cooling goals? Read our guide to find out.

 

What is a ducted air conditioning system?

Ducted AC systems are the ‘whole home’ air condition solution and are capable of controlling the temperature and humidity in every room of the house. A ducted air conditioning system works through its internal unit, which is installed within the roof space of the home. A series of ducts run from the air conditioning unit to each of the rooms in the home, allowing you to cool or heat each room using individual controls. Ducted systems are the fastest working, most energy-efficient option when it comes to cooling and heating your home, but do you ever need to replace the ducts? 

What is zoning?

Zoning is the added feature of ducted air conditioning systems which allows you to compartmentalise your home into different zones. Most ducted air conditioners can support up to eight zones or sometimes even more, and these are relatively easy to set up. Zoning allows you to preset different climate conditions for each zone in the home based on each area’s specific heating or cooling needs. You can turn on and off each zone and preset different temperature settings for each zone.

Zoning and energy efficiency

Not only can zoning allow you to have a highly personalised heating and cooling system in your home, but it can also improve energy efficiency too. Rather than cooling down your entire home at the same time, you can choose only to cool the rooms being used, saving you a considerable amount on running costs as you avoid unnecessarily cooling the other areas of your home.

Planning your zones

While you may have specific plans and objectives, it is important that you discuss your zoning plan with your air conditioning company before installation. You will need to determine which areas of your home you require heating and cooling, and what time of the day you need it. You can group different zones together for added convenience. Zoning configurations can be very versatile, but you will need to have a good grasp of how you want to use your air conditioning. You will want to map your air conditioning zones according to your usage pattern for your home. A typical zoning configuration is as follows:

  • Entrance & Hallway
  • Living & Dining
  • Kitchen
  • Bedrooms (1 zone for each)
  • Lounge
  • Study

Most ducted air conditioning systems will come with a wall-mounted zone controller. Alternatively, newer systems connect with wifi, meaning you can control zones with your smart-phone, even while you are not at home. 

Zoning is an excellent way to appropriately regulate the climate of your home. If you have any questions about zoning or are looking for a quote for electrical installations, repairs, or general maintenance, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with HunterCON today.

With over nine years of experience under our belt, we pride ourselves on providing air-con and electrical services of the highest quality. Get in touch with us today.

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Replacing air conditioning ducts

By | Air Conditioning

When customers want to replace an old air conditioning system with a new ducted reverse cycle or evaporative system, they often ask to keep the existing ducts in order to save on costs.

But when do existing ducts need to be replaced and why could new ones be beneficial? Read our guide to find out.

 

What is a ducted AC system?

Ducted AC systems are the ‘whole home’ air condition solution and are capable of controlling the temperature and humidity in every room of the house. A ducted air conditioning system works through its internal unit, which is installed within the roof space of the home. A series of ducts run from the air conditioning unit to each of the rooms in the home, allowing you to cool or heat each room using individual controls. Ducted systems are the fastest working, most energy-efficient option when it comes to cooling and heating your home, but do you ever need to replace the ducts? 

When should you replace your ducts? 

Over time, AC ducts are exposed to dust and moisture, which forms due to condensation during operation. Over time dust, lint, grime and more can all build-up in your air-con ducts. It is recommended that you have your ducts cleaned or replaced if your air conditioning has been installed for over ten years. If you are installing a new ducted air conditioning system, you should always choose to put in new ducts too.

Benefits of replacing your AC ducts

While it is important to clean your AC ducts regularly, sometimes replacing them altogether is the most viable option. There are a number of benefits of replacing your AC ducts, including:

Air Quality & Hygiene: Old air ducts can become clogged up with dirt and grime, dead carcasses of insects and other contaminations. This build-up can result in the growth of bacteria which can have an impact on the hygiene of your home and the health of your family. 

Energy Efficiency: Clogged ducts can reduce airflow by up to 80% and forces your AC to work much harder, adding significantly to your energy bill. Replacing old ducting will work to save on running costs of your AC system all year.

Increasing the life of your AC: Clean ducting also has the added benefit of maximising the life of your air conditioner. Build up of contaminants and reduced airflow means that your AC system has to work much harder to perform the heating and cooling, which shortens the life cycle of any system. At HunterCON we always recommend putting in new ducts with each new system installation.

If you have any questions about whether or not you should replace your ducts, or are looking for a quote for electrical installations, repairs, or general maintenance, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with HunterCON today.

With over nine years of experience under our belt, we pride ourselves on providing air-con and electrical services of the highest quality. Get in touch with us today.

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What type of AC system is best for you?

By | Air Conditioning

While it might be an easy decision to invest in an air conditioning system to cool down or heat up your home, it can be tricky to choose what type of system you install.

So what are your options when it comes to air conditioning systems? Read on to find out which choice is best for you.

 

Window AC Unit

A window air conditioning system is one of the simplest and cheapest AC systems for your home. This system is mounted on windows or walls and is a single unit that is assembled in a casing where all the components are located. While they are relatively cheap to purchase and easy to install yourself, they can be loud and can cause energy bills to skyrocket. This system is only recommended for rooms that do not require sufficient heating or cooling all the time, which is rare in Australia’s climate.

Split system

Split systems are the most popular type of air conditioning units for homes, and are designed to cool and/or heat either small or large residential areas. A split air conditioner consists of an outdoor unit and an indoor unit. The outdoor unit is installed on or near the exterior wall of the room that you wish to cool. This unit houses the compressor, condenser coil and the expansion coil or capillary tubing. The sleek-looking indoor unit contains the cooling coil, a long blower and an air filter. A split system can be a great choice, as they are relatively noise-free as well as sleek and subtle in their design. While the initial cost of split air conditioning units is significantly higher than a window unit, and it does require professional installation they are much more energy-efficient, saving you money in the long-run.

Multi-split system

If you require multiple rooms or various room temperatures, multi-split systems are the way to go. They function the same as a split system, however, comprise of a single outdoor unit connected to multiple independent indoor units. This can be an excellent solution for households and buildings with specific needs. It is important to note that due to the increased number of indoor units, the cost of a multi-split system can be significantly higher than that or a single split system.

Ducted system 

Alternatively to the window units, split and multi-split AC systems, ducted systems are the ‘whole home’ air condition solution and are capable of controlling the temperature and humidity in every room of the house. A ducted air conditioning system works through its internal unit, which is installed within the roof space of the home. A series of ducts run from the air conditioning unit to each of the rooms in the home, allowing you to cool or heat each room using individual controls. Due to the unit being installed in the roof, ducted air conditioning is definitely the most aesthetic AC option. Additionally, ducted systems are the fastest working, most energy-efficient, and with a reverse cycle, system can allow you to heat your home too. 

Each possible air conditioning system has a number of advantages and disadvantages which are important to weigh up before you make a decision. If you have any questions about which AC is right for you, or are looking for a quote for electrical installations, repairs, or general maintenance, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with HunterCON today.

With over nine years of experience under our belt, we pride ourselves on providing air-con and electrical services of the highest quality. Get in touch with us today.

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Ceiling fans versus air conditioning units

By | Air Conditioning

It is always important to keep cool during the warmer months of the year. When it comes to installing a cooling system in your home, you may be wondering whether ceiling fans or an air conditioning unit is the best choice. You might have heard that ceiling fans aren’t as effective as air conditioners. Or maybe you think air conditioners will cost you a fortune in power bills?
ceiling fans

Both ceiling fans and air conditioners have great benefits, and the best choice for your home will depend entirely on your unique needs. To make the decision a little bit easier, we have compared ceiling fans and AC units for you. Read on to find out more. 

 

Initial costs

For many, the initial cost of their cooling system will be a very important consideration. To put it simply, ceiling fans are much cheaper to install, with the initial outlay starting at just a few hundred dollars per fan. Keep in mind, however, that the cost of ceiling fans will be multiplied by the number of rooms you want to cool in your home. Alternatively, the price of a single split system air conditioner will start from $1500 and must be fully installed by a qualified refrigeration mechanic and electrician.

Running costs

While initial costs are an essential factor to recognise, so too are the running costs of your cooling system. Ceiling fans are highly economical, operating for as little as 1c per hour. While air conditioners are a little more expensive to run, they are quickly becoming much more cost-effective as technology improves.

Effectiveness

While cost saving is important, you want to ensure that you have made an investment which will do what it is supposed to do: keep you cool! Ceiling fans are effective in creating a cooling breeze on a humid or stuffy day; however, air conditioning units have the ability to actually bring the temperature of your home down by a few degrees. There is no doubt that an AC unit will be much more effective in keeping you cool, however, whether you need that much cooling or not is entirely up to you.

Combining ceiling fans and air conditioning units

If you’re living in a shifting climate, there can be significant benefits in installing both air conditioning and ceiling fans. In fact, running a ceiling fan and an air conditioner at the same time can increase room comfort as well as save energy. When the AC is running, ceiling fans can be used to circulate the cool air around the room, making people feel even cooler. This allows you to turn down the core temperature of your AC which has impressive cost-saving benefits. Air conditioning units and ceiling fans can be used in the cooler months to make your house warm too, making the combination a worthwhile investment.

With over 9 years of experience under our belt, we pride ourselves on providing air-con and electrical services of the highest quality. Get in touch with us today.