There’s nothing quite like the peace of mind that comes from knowing your home is in good condition, ready to keep your family comfortable no matter what weather comes your way. And we’ve got an offer, this month only, that can provide you with a remarkable amount of carefree comfort. With a full HVAC system upgrade, we’ll give you a 10-year labor warranty as a gift! What’s a labor warranty? Let us explain.
When it comes to your entire HVAC system, your thermostat is the brains of the operation. It’s how your heat and your air conditioning know when to come on or shut off. It makes all the decisions. And if you’ve got an old thermostat, it might not be able to make the best decisions.
If you’ve got any concerns about your HVAC system, your old thermostat might be the component that’s responsible. And it could be contributing to inefficiency as well. You would do well to consider a smart thermostat. But just what can a smart thermostat do? How smart is it, really? Here’s what you should know. When you’re ready to find out more about your options for thermostats in Pelham, AL, we’d love to chat with you.
Mini split is another term for what is also called a ductless system, and it is a spectacular alternative to the ducted HVAC systems you’re probably more familiar with. What is it that makes a mini split so spectacular? We’re so glad you asked! Here are five reasons to be amazed by ductless mini splits.
When you find yourself in the market for a new heating system, one question that undoubtedly crosses your mind is “How long do heating systems last?” It’s a valid concern; after all, you want to ensure you get the most out of your investment.
At Douglas Cooling & Heating, Alabama’s most trusted heating, cooling, and plumbing company, we get this question a lot. That’s why we decided to create this helpful guide for HVAC systems. Give it a read to find the answer you’re looking for and get to know your heating options a little better.
Each heating system has its own unique benefits. Whether you prioritize energy efficiency, rapid heating, zoned comfort, or versatility, there’s a heating solution out there that suits your specific needs.
In Birmingham, Alabama, where chilly winters can sometimes catch us off guard, furnaces play a crucial role in keeping our homes cozy and comfortable. These systems are renowned for their efficiency and rapid heating capabilities. Furnaces distribute warm air through ducts, which is a popular choice among homeowners looking for a quick and effective way to combat the cold.
Boilers provide a reliable and consistent source of heat, making them well-suited for Alabama’s climate. By using heated water or steam, they ensure your home stays warm even during the coldest days. This reliability is particularly valuable when the temperature drops unexpectedly, as boilers can efficiently maintain a comfortable indoor environment.
Ductless mini-splits offer a versatile and energy-efficient option for homeowners in our community. With our region’s varying temperatures, these systems shine by providing zoned heating, allowing you to customize comfort room by room. Whether you want to keep your living room warm in the evening while keeping the bedrooms cooler for a comfortable night’s sleep or vice versa, ductless mini-splits offer the flexibility you need. Plus, their energy efficiency helps you manage your heating and cooling system costs more effectively.
Heat pumps have a unique advantage in Birmingham, where our weather can swing between hot summers and chilly winters. A heat pump can heat and cool your home, making them a well-rounded choice for year-round comfort. In addition to their heating and cooling capabilities, heat pumps are known for their energy efficiency, helping you stay comfortable while keeping energy bills in check.
Now, let’s answer the question of the hour: How long do heating systems last?
Keep in mind that the numbers above are general guidelines. The actual lifespan of your heating system can be influenced by several factors, including the following:
No matter what type of heating or air conditioning system you have, there comes a point in its life where replacement becomes the better choice. Here are some clear signs that it’s time for an HVAC replacement:
Heating systems, like air conditioners and any other mechanical equipment, have a finite lifespan. If your system has exceeded its average service life, it’s time to consider a replacement. Continuing to rely on an aging HVAC system may lead to reduced performance, increased repair costs, and higher energy bills.
If you find yourself constantly calling for heating system repairs, it might be more cost-effective, not to mention less aggravating, to invest in a new system. Frequent breakdowns and costly repairs can quickly add up, making the prospect of a new, reliable HVAC system more appealing.
Over time, heating systems can become less efficient, causing your energy bills to rise. If you notice a steady increase in your heating costs without a corresponding increase in comfort, it’s a strong indication that your system’s efficiency is declining, and a replacement may offer long-term savings.
Uneven heating throughout your home can be a frustrating issue. If certain rooms are consistently colder than others or if you find yourself constantly adjusting the thermostat to maintain comfort, it could be a sign that your heating system is deteriorating and struggling to evenly distribute heat.
At Douglas Cooling & Heating, we have the expertise to install a wide range of heating systems tailored to your specific requirements. Our NATE-certified technicians take immense pride in delivering top-quality heating installations, catering to both residential and commercial customers throughout Birmingham, AL, and the surrounding areas.
Whether you’re considering boilers, furnaces, heat pumps, or ductless systems, we’ve got you covered. Be sure to check out our flexible financing options for a heater or air conditioner, too!
Moreover, our commitment doesn’t end with installations; we also specialize in repairing all makes and models of HVAC equipment. To significantly reduce the risk of unexpected system breakdowns, don’t forget to schedule annual maintenance tune-ups with our dedicated HVAC technicians. Or, go ahead and enroll in our 24/7 Club right now to be treated to priority service and other exclusive perks! Contact us today to get started.
At Douglas Cooling & Heating, we understand that a new HVAC system is a big investment. For many families and business owners, it’s an extremely difficult expense to face. In some cases, people are unable to cover the entire cost up front. However, heating and cooling are not luxuries. They’re essential. And if your old HVAC system isn’t getting the job done, you need a new one.
We don’t want anyone to suffer through uncomfortable or even dangerous temperatures. And we’re prepared to help. What can people do if they’re unprepared to purchase a new HVAC system outright, but they need one right away? Consider these options.
As the summer season gradually fades away, the cool embrace of fall ushers in the anticipation of warm sweaters, pumpkin spice lattes, and cozy evenings at home. While you may be reveling in the joys of autumn, it’s also the perfect time to prepare for the inevitable onset of winter.
Part of this preparation involves scheduling heating system maintenance to ensure your home stays warm and comfortable throughout the chilly months. But have you ever questioned why heating experts want you to do this every year? And what consequences might you face if you neglect it? Stay with us to find out!
Regular heating system maintenance offers numerous advantages, including:
One of the primary benefits of annual heating system tune-ups is the significant cost savings. Regular maintenance ensures your home heating system operates with optimum efficiency, directly translating to lower energy bills. By promptly detecting and addressing issues during routine maintenance, you can prevent them from evolving into costly repairs or even the need for a complete system replacement.
With regular tune-ups, homeowners can bask in the assurance that their home heating system will consistently provide comfort throughout the winter months. This peace of mind and reliability ensure that your home remains a cozy and inviting haven even during the chilliest weather.
Another advantage of routine heating system maintenance is the enhanced safety it delivers. Regular inspections and maintenance procedures act as a protective shield against potentially dangerous safety issues. This includes detecting and preventing problems like gas leaks, carbon monoxide leaks, and electrical hazards.
Regular maintenance undoubtedly extends the lifespan of your heating system. Rather than prematurely facing the financial burden of a costly replacement, you can enjoy many more years of reliable service.
Many heating system manufacturers require annual maintenance as part of their warranty conditions. By sticking to a regular tune-up schedule, you meet these requirements, ensuring that you remain covered if any unforeseen problems arise.
Annual heating system maintenance significantly contributes to better indoor air quality. Regular service includes cleaning or replacing air filters and thoroughly inspecting system components. This commitment to cleanliness ensures that your heating system doesn’t circulate dust, allergens, or pollutants, which is particularly beneficial for individuals with allergies or respiratory conditions.
While some homeowners may be tempted to forego professional maintenance to save a few bucks, the long-term consequences can be far more costly and inconvenient. Here’s what you might encounter when you skip regular tune-ups:
Now that you understand the significance of heating system maintenance, let’s explore what typically occurs during a professional tune-up:
You should schedule maintenance for your home’s heating and cooling systems at least once a year. The ideal time to schedule your fall heating system maintenance is before the cold sets in. Early autumn, typically in September or October, is the perfect window. By acting proactively, you can make sure your heating system is in top shape when the temperatures drop.
Waiting until the last minute or neglecting maintenance can lead to unexpected breakdowns on frigid nights, leaving your family shivering in discomfort. Being proactive pays off, as a well-maintained heating system will keep you cozy all winter and save you from the hassle, inconvenience, and extra costs associated with emergency repairs.
Homeowners across Alabama rely on various heating systems to stay cozy during the winter. While not every heating and air conditioning company can handle all these systems, Douglas Cooling & Heating stands out. Our HVAC professionals provide comprehensive repair, installation, and maintenance services for furnaces, heat pumps, boilers, ductless mini splits, and more. You can count on us for all of your heating and cooling needs.
We’ve also made scheduling HVAC maintenance more convenient than ever! We understand that remembering to schedule HVAC system tune-up appointments is an easily forgettable task. When you sign up for our 24/7 Club Membership, we’ll send you scheduling reminders and provide plenty of other perks that make caring for your home’s heating and cooling system year round simple and easy. This is one maintenance program that’s worth it!
For dependable home heating system maintenance in Birmingham, Alabama, and the surrounding area, reach out to the seasoned professionals at Douglas Cooling & Heating today.
Ductless mini splits are becoming more popular in homes and buildings across the country. They offer a cost-effective and efficient heating and cooling system option without the need for ductwork. However, there is a growing concern among homeowners and business owners about mold growth in their ductless mini split systems. As a leading provider of HVAC services in the area, we feel it’s important to address this concern head-on and clear up any misconceptions about mini splits growing mold.
The short answer is yes, mini splits can grow mold just like any other HVAC system. Mold growth usually occurs in areas where there is moisture and humidity, such as in air conditioning ductwork, air handlers, and evaporators. Even though mini split systems do not have ductwork, they are not immune to mold growth.
Ductless mini split equipment can be prone to mold growth, which can have negative effects on your health, indoor air quality, and the functionality of your system. Mold in your mini splits can be caused by a few reasons, including:
One of the most common reasons why ductless air conditioners and ductless heat pump systems can develop mold is due to improper installation. When a mini split is installed incorrectly, it can lead to moisture buildup in the system. When moisture stays in the ductless mini split, water vapor can then become a breeding ground that allows a mold infestation to grow and spread throughout the inside of the air handler unit.
Another reason why ductless mini splits can develop mold is due to inadequate maintenance. When filters are not changed regularly or coils are left dirty, it can create a breeding ground for mold to grow. Mold spores thrive in these conditions, and they can quickly spread throughout the system.
Mini splits located in humid environments with excess moisture in the air may also be at risk for mold growth. If there are high humidity levels in your house, it can create a moist environment that is ideal for mold spores to grow and spread. This is especially true if the mini split is used for extended periods of time without proper ventilation.
Another common reason why ductless mini splits can develop mold is due to a clogged condensate drain line. When the drain line becomes clogged, standing water can back up into the system, creating a moist environment that is ideal for mold growth.
Below are some of the common signs that your ductless mini split is growing mold. Being aware of these signs can help you take appropriate action and prevent mold from spreading in your house.
The good news is, most of the warning signs of mold growth are easy to detect and can be reported to a professional HVAC contractor to help solve the mold problem. Don’t wait until mold becomes a serious issue; take action at the first sign of trouble.
Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to avoid mold growth in your mini split system. Regular maintenance is vital to ensuring that your mini split system operates efficiently and remains mold-free. Here are some essential maintenance tasks that will help keep your mini split system in good condition:
Regular preventative maintenance tune ups from a licensed HVAC professional can significantly prevent mold growth in ductless mini splits. The preventive maintenance procedures performed by HVAC professionals include mini split cleaning, checking for leaks, deep cleaning of the evaporator coil, and ensuring that the air handlers and heat pumps are running correctly. During an HVAC professional’s maintenance, they also check for any potential causes of moisture buildup, such as clogged drains.
Dirty mini split air filters can cause mold and other contaminants to accumulate in ductless systems. Make sure to change your ductless system air filters every one to three months, depending on use and the environment.
The drain line in your mini split system can become clogged with dirt and debris, leading to standing and mold growth. Inspect the drain line regularly, and clean it out with a brush or air compressor if necessary.
Ductless mini split units can grow mold just like other systems, such as an air conditioner or heat pump. However, timely maintenance and preventative measures can help ensure that your mini split system remains mold-free. If you suspect mold growth in your mini split system, call Douglas Cooling & Heating to inspect the system and perform professional cleaning for your ductless air conditioner units. Contact us today to schedule a service appointment or to learn more about our services.
What a summer we had! Wildfires in more places than ever, burning out of control for long stretches of time, caused smoke to spread all across the country. Weather forecasts included air quality warnings, and people were told to stay inside to avoid breathing the smoke.
But things have gotten better now, right? Well, yes, but all that smoke still had an impact that could be sticking around. Particles that settle out of wildfire smoke can build up inside your air ducts and continue to circulate in your home. What can you do? Get your ducts cleaned!
Similar to your business where your employees, managers, and administration each have to function individually in order to have a successful team, your commercial HVAC system must be made up of clean, operational equipment. Unfortunately, without regularly scheduled and proper care, your commercial HVAC equipment requires more frequent repairs. Ultimately, poor maintenance causes total breakdowns, which leads to a costly replacement. And no one wants that.
Douglas Cooling & Heating offers premium commercial HVAC maintenance to business owners across Birmingham, AL, and surrounding areas so your commercial HVAC units operate at the same high-quality level as your business. Our routine commercial HVAC service helps you maintain a productive workplace with healthy and happy employees all year round.
Contact Douglas Cooling & Heating for your commercial HVAC needs in Birmingham, AL today.
As with your business’ vehicles, IT equipment, and other components, your HVAC system needs regular attention to operate at peak efficiency.
Although each HVAC system—consisting of air conditioners, air filter, and heat pumps—has its own unique requirements, you should generally schedule professional maintenance from our experts twice a year. The best time for maintenance appointments is the spring and fall before the extremes of each season come to Birmingham, AL in full swing.
A newer system that only runs for a single season, such as a furnace, may only require an annual maintenance appointment. But an older piece of equipment or a system that runs year-round, like a heat pump, needs twice-a-year tune-ups to ensure everything is in working order.
Our skilled technicians at Douglas Cooling & Heating can perform regular maintenance at any interval to ensure your commercial equipment always provides reliable heating, cooling, and indoor air quality to your business.
Contact us today to schedule your appointment.
As a busy business owner, you may have an “if it’s not broke, don’t fix it” mentality when it comes to commercial HVAC service. But investing in preventative maintenance can actually save you time and money in the long run. When your HVAC systems are cleaned, inspected, and repaired on a routine basis, they’re more energy efficient and less likely to experience major issues and breakdowns in the peak of cooling or heating season.
When you choose Douglas Cooling & Heating for your commercial HVAC maintenance, you’ll experience an array of benefits, including:
Contact Douglas Cooling & Heating to experience the benefits of our periodic inspections and maintenance tune ups today.
At Douglas Cooling & Heating, our commercial maintenance appointments are more than a quick visual inspection of your HVAC system or a change of your air filters. We dive deeper into your system, from mechanical equipment to electrical connections, to ensure every single component is operating safely and efficiently.
Our HVAC maintenance appointments often include:
To make accessing quality commercial HVAC maintenance easier than ever for Birmingham business owners, Douglas Cooling & Heating offers our 24/7 Club Membership. While this gives you uninhibited repair and replacement support, our membership also acts as a custom maintenance contract or agreement so you can have peace of mind your equipment will be serviced right every time.
Our club membership includes three different levels of service to choose from, so your unique business needs are always met. Typically, each tier includes one spring maintenance visit, one fall tune-up, and one plumbing visit per year. You’ll also experience the following benefits:
Call Douglas Cooling & Heating to learn more about our superior maintenance club membership and 24/7 emergency services today.
At Douglas Cooling & Heating, we believe every business owner in our service area of Birmingham, AL, deserves HVAC systems that work as hard as they do. This commitment to your safety and comfort is why we’re the top HVAC company in the area for commercial maintenance. From air conditioning to your heating system, we can help you save money and extend the life of every piece of HVAC equipment your company relies on. Contact Douglas Cooling & Heating to schedule your next commercial HVAC maintenance appointment today.
During summer months, Alabama homeowners turn to their HVAC systems for cool relief. However, many homeowners also use ceiling fans to help keep them cool in the summer, but do ceiling fans help AC systems work better? When used correctly, your ceiling fans keep air moving and help your HVAC system keep your home feel cooler and use less energy. The team at Douglas Cooling & Heating explains the many benefits of using your ceiling fan in tandem with your HVAC system throughout the year.
Ceiling fans do not create cool air but can help with the movement of air. Think about it this way: a hot summer day always feels worse when there is no breeze. The same is true for your home. Stagnant air can make you feel hotter than you actually are. Ceiling fans help with the circulation of air in your home and depending on which way the fans are spinning, can be used to help with the comfort of the air in your home in different seasons.
In the summer months, ceiling fans help your air conditioning system by reducing the cooling load in your home. As the blades of the fan rotate counterclockwise, they move air downward toward the spaces where we sit, sleep, and live.
This creates a wind chill effect and moves air across your skin. The breeze evaporates moisture from your skin which makes you feel warmer. When a ceiling fan is used, you can raise the thermostat setting by up to 4 degrees Fahrenheit without any reduction in comfort. Therefore, your AC unit gets a break and lessens the odds of requiring air conditioning repair service. This is a great way to help save on energy bills in your Birmingham area home.
Adding to this, ceiling fans also improve the overall circulation of air within a room. By doing so, they ensure a more uniform distribution of cool air, reducing hot spots and cold zones. This means your central air conditioning system doesn’t have to work as hard to maintain a comfortable temperature throughout the space.
It’s also worth noting that ceiling fans are incredibly energy-efficient in their own right. They use significantly less electricity compared to an air conditioner, making them a cost-effective way to stay cool in the summer.
Lastly, by reducing the workload on your air conditioning system, a ceiling fan can extend the lifespan of the unit. Less strain on the AC means fewer breakdowns and repairs, saving you money and hassle in the long run.
So, not only do ceiling fans help the AC system, but they also contribute to energy conservation, cost savings, and the longevity of your HVAC equipment.
In the winter, you can use a ceiling fan in combination with your heating system to keep your home more comfortable. Ceiling fans work to evenly distribute the air in the room. In the fall, grab a ladder and look for a switch on the base of the motor on your ceiling fan. Flip the switch to make the blades of your ceiling fan rotate in the opposite direction. When your fan spins clockwise, the fan’s blades draw warm air up toward your ceiling, and the rotating motion pushes this air out toward the edges of the room before circulating back to the ground. With air warmer pooling naturally at the top of a room, this air distribution helps the whole space feel warmer by pushing it back down to reach your body.
You benefit from more of the warmth produced by your heating system. This can reduce the amount of heat needed by helping you benefit from the warm air already produced by your heating system and can reduce the stress on your system. A less stressed system means a lower chance of needing heating system repairs.
Adjust the ceiling fan blade direction for each season to create the desired warming or cooling effect. Fans have a switch, typically located on the base, to adjust the direction of blade rotation. It is important you select the correct direction for each season to achieve the desired effect. Changing the rotation of your ceiling fan blades is simple, as most models are equipped with a switch on the unit to switch the direction.
In the summer, your ceiling fan blades are set to rotate counterclockwise; in the winter, the blades should be set to rotate clockwise. Ceiling fans shouldn’t be used in the same direction in the winter as they work in the summer. Otherwise, you’ll get the undesirable windchill effect indoors when you’re trying to stay warm.
Whenever a room is unoccupied, you should turn the ceiling fan off. The warming benefits the ceiling fan produces are realized by those in the room. When there’s no one in the room, there’s no need to waste electricity operating the fan. Ceiling fans don’t save energy if they operate in unoccupied rooms.
One exception to this rule exists a ceiling fan located at the top of a two-story stairwell or foyer. As heat rises to the second floor, the ceiling fan moves the stairwell’s heat down to the first floor to add warmth. If you have a two-story foyer or great room which feels cool while upstairs feels warm or stuffy, try a fan. An existing lighting fixture can easily be swapped out with a fan or a fan with lighting.
Using ceiling fans wisely throughout the summer can be a great complement to your HVAC system. Ceiling fans can help you feel cooler indoors and allow your HVAC system to operate less for great energy savings. Be sure your ceiling fan blades are rotating counterclockwise in the summer and you turn off your ceiling fans when a room is unoccupied!
These ceiling fan best practices give your HVAC system a needed break this winter and help it operate more efficiently. For more energy-saving tips, schedule service from Douglas Cooling & Heating today.
8752 Helena Rd.,
Pelham,
AL
35124
Payments / Mailing Address
P.O. Box 362163
Birmingham, AL 35236
HVAC License AL#17181
Refrigeration License AL#51758
