Imagine you’re inside on a chilly night, cozy and relaxing on your couch. Gradually, you notice a subtle drop in temperature. Confused, you check your thermostat to see if the auxiliary heat has started. What exactly is auxiliary heat?  What Is Auxiliary Heat? Think of auxiliary heat as “backup heat.” This setting provides extra heat when your heat pump can’t meet the temperature set on your thermostat.  Related Post: How Heat Pumps Work to Keep Your Home Comfortable Traditional furnaces generate heat through combustion, while heat pumps pull heat from the outside air and transfer it ..read more

When evaporator coil leaks occur, it can lead to issues from reduced efficiency to system breakdowns. We’ll share the signs indicating an evaporator coil leak, guide you through the steps of fixing these issues, and preventive measures to ensure your HVAC system operates at peak performance. What Causes a Leaking Evaporator? One common cause of a leaking evaporator is corrosion, which occurs over time as the coil is exposed to the condensation and moisture present in the air. Corrosion weakens the metal, leading to small holes or cracks through which refrigerant can escape. Another culprit is ..read more

As temperatures drop, many homeowners wonder whether the thermostat should be set to ‘on’ or ‘auto’ for heat.  Understanding the fundamental differences between these two settings is essential for maintaining home comfort, optimizing energy efficiency, and promoting indoor air quality. Understanding Thermostat Settings: ‘On’ vs. ‘Auto’ When exploring the thermostat ‘on’ or ‘auto’ for heat debate, it’s crucial to grasp the key differences between these two settings. Setting your thermostat to ‘on’ results in a continuous operation of your heating system’s fan, even when the system isn’t ac ..read more

Many people are confused about covering their AC unit in the winter and have likely heard different answers about what they should do.  Related Post: Why You Need Professional Furnace Repair in Cincinnati Air Authority clears up the confusion in our blog below and shares how to winterize this equipment in today’s blog. Should You Cover Your AC in the Winter?  Never cover your AC unit in the winter! We advise you not to cover your unit to avoid potential issues related to moisture retention, pest infestation, and compromised performance. A cover can create a damp environment around th ..read more

Electrical surges, characterized by brief spikes in voltage, pose a significant threat to air conditioning (AC) units. Elevated voltage during a surge can damage sensitive electronic components within your AC unit, including the control board, capacitor, compressor, and fan motors. Even if immediate damage is not apparent, surges increase wear and tear, shortening the system’s lifespan.  To mitigate these risks, homeowners often install surge protectors.  Do I Need a Surge Protector for My AC Unit? The short answer – yes.  While your HVAC system is designed for everyday use, it ..read more

A reliable and efficient furnace plays a crucial role in home comfort. Unfortunately, nothing lasts forever, and there comes a time when you need to consider replacing your furnace. If you’ve researched replacing your furnace, you might’ve encountered sticker shock or confusion about the buying process. The experts at Air Authority have seen it all.  We’ll share our knowledge of the cost factors, explore the reasons behind the expense, evaluate the worth of furnace replacement, and share tips to maintain your furnace’s optimal performance. How Much Does it Cost to Replace a Furnace in You ..read more

Every furnace company and HVAC maintenance provider will tell you you need an annual service. It’s easy to brush this advice aside and wonder if it’s really necessary. We get it.  However, your furnace does more than just warm your home. A well-working furnace keeps your family safe. So, we’ll give you the advice you’ve heard before. Your furnace should be serviced every year, minimum.  Air Authority shares the recommended frequency for furnace servicing, signs that your furnace needs attention, and the consequences of neglecting maintenance.  How Often Should You Service Your F ..read more

Your living space should be comfortable and safe year-round. If you suspect it’s a cracked heat exchanger, it could pose a significant safety risk.   This often-overlooked component plays a pivotal role in heating your home. The professionals at Air Authority explain how to know if you have a cracked heat exchanger and the steps you should take to address the issue. What Is a Heat Exchanger? A heat exchanger is responsible for transferring heat from one source to another, typically from a fuel source (like natural gas or oil) to the air circulating through your ducts.  This proc ..read more

Cold weather is approaching, and you’re ready to crank up the heat at home. But whenever you try, your heat isn’t turning on correctly or at all.  Air Authority in Cincinnati, OH, provides troubleshooting for old thermostats not turning on and how it can relate to problems with your heat pump.  You Have An Old Thermostat  While they may have served you well for years, old thermostats can develop issues over time, impacting their ability to function correctly. If your thermostat is not turning on the heat as it should, the first thing to consider is its age. Older thermostats may ..read more

As summer temperatures soar, an efficient and reliable air conditioning unit is essential in keeping your home cool and comfortable. The heart of any AC system is its compressor, located in the outdoor unit, responsible for pumping refrigerant and maintaining the cooling process.  Over time, AC compressors can wear out or fail, necessitating replacement.  The big question is, can you do it yourself? Related Post: How to Fix Your AC Compressor (The Ultimate Guide) In this blog, we’ll explore whether you can replace your AC compressor yourself, the difficulty involved, and the potentia ..read more