3 Easily Avoidable AC Issues Homeowners Should Know

Technician holding a drill, smiling, with text overlay "Common AC Issues," related to HVAC maintenance and air conditioning problems for Florida homeowners.

AC Problems and How To Avoid Them

Air conditioning is extremely important, especially for Florida homeowners. It is only right that homeowners know the ins and outs of avoiding certain AC problems in their homes. One of the easiest ways to ensure that homeowners avoid as many AC problems as possible is to have regularly scheduled professional maintenance done to their system. Doing so will minimize breakdowns and emergencies because the professionals will ideally catch the problems before they even occur. In turn, this potentially saves homeowners thousands of dollars on repairs and damages to the home. Below are three common AC issues that are also easily avoided.

The Causes of Poor Airflow and How to Avoid It

One of the most common complaints about an AC system is poor airflow. Sometimes this can present itself as inconsistent temperatures throughout the home or even the AC unit staying on much longer than it used to.

Typically, the reason for this issue is some kind of blockage in the system. If the air filter hasn’t been changed in a while, this should be the homeowner’s first step. If the issue continues, the problem might be located in the air ducts themselves. Sometimes if the air ducts haven’t been cleaned in a while, it can lead to blockages in airflow that lead to poor airflow, inconsistent temperatures, and an overworked AC system.

The easiest way to avoid this issue is with regular professional maintenance and air duct cleaning services. A professional will be able to easily tell the homeowner when it is time to schedule an air duct cleaning as well as other potential issues with the system. Staying on top of maintenance keeps the homeowner informed and decreases the chance of surprise issues popping up.

refrigerant leakRefrigerant Leaks: Causes and Prevention

Another common issue is a refrigerant leak within the AC system. This issue usually arises after years of wear and tear. Corrosion eats away at the metal and causes small holes to form, which can lead to refrigerant leaks.

This can’t necessarily be prevented, but it can be spotted before the leak occurs. Regular maintenance is the answer to this issue as well. When a professional consistently has eyes on the AC system, they know what to look for and can spot when corrosion forms.

Certain cleaning methods can help slow down the corrosion process, but eventually, the unit will need to be replaced. The professional can tell the homeowner about this before it even happens so they can better prepare for the investment.

No Power To the Unit and How To Fix It

no power to the unit

If the AC won’t turn on, there could be a number of reasons for this, some of which include:

  • Clogged air filter
  • Dirty condenser lines
  • Dirty evaporator coils
  • A refrigerant leak
  • The motor failed
  • The thermostat is broken
  • A wiring issue within the home
  • A tripped breaker or blown fuse

The possible causes of an AC not receiving power are vast, so it is best to get a professional over for an inspection before making any sudden moves. A professional will be able to tell the homeowner exactly why their AC won’t turn on and the steps to take to safely fix it.

Mid Florida A/C Is There When Homeowners Need Them

Mid Florida A/C is the company that Melbourne, FL homeowners call when they need any sort of AC maintenance, repairs, or replacement. These skilled experts are professional, courteous, and even have a 24/7 live answer, so their customers never have to wait for answers to important questions. Call today to get AC services!

Easy Ways To Beat the Summer Heat

summer heat

3 Ways To Keep Cool This Summer

Most homeowners in America rely heavily on their air conditioners throughout the summer. For many, this is their main source of cooling off and beating the summer heat. While this is an incredibly effective method for escaping the heat, it isn’t the only method. In fact, there are many other things homeowners can do to not only stay cooler this summer but to alleviate some of the pressure off of their AC units. In turn, some of these things could end up saving the homeowner money throughout the years on repairs and energy bills, so they are worth learning about!

Below are three effective ways that homeowners can beat the heat and simultaneously help preserve the life of their AC system. Continue reading to learn more.

Lower Water Temps

cool shower

Taking slightly colder showers than normal might sound extremely unappealing to most people, but it can significantly help keep the home cooler. The AC won’t have to work harder because the bathroom wouldn’t get as hot.

If the inherent money savings from preserving the AC aren’t enticing enough, then maybe the benefits of cold showers will be.

There are numerous benefits people can experience from taking cold showers, some of which include:

  • It helps to calm itchy and irritated skin
  • Helps with glowing skin and hair
  • Increases circulation in the body
  • Reduces the chance of muscle soreness after a workout
  • May help with weight loss

Not to mention it also helps to wake a person up in the morning.

Bed Linens Matter

bed linens

This tip might cost a little extra money as an initial investment, but it also provides multiple benefits. It might seem strange that this would be on the list, but if homeowners want to stay cooler while they sleep, they should invest in bed linens made from breathable fabrics.

Here are a few examples of breathable fabrics for bed linens:

  • Percale-cotton bed linens
  • Linen-core bed linens
  • Linens with eucalyptus-infused fabric for added breathability
  • Tencel bed linens
  • Tencel-cotton blend bed linens
  • Bamboo bed linens
  • Silver-infused bamboo bed linens

All of these fabrics have great reviews for breathability and comfort!

Check the AC Filter

This last one is a bit more related to the air conditioning system itself, but homeowners need to check on their air filters. The air filter catches most of the pollutants in the air so those in the household can breathe the cleanest air possible. When it gets clogged up, it reduces the air quality in the home and makes the AC work harder than it has to move through the clogged filter.

The air filter should be changed every three months, especially if multiple people and pets are in the home.

There’s No One Like Mid Florida A/C

DeBary, FL is a little safer with Mid Florida A/C around. Not only are they trained and experienced professionals, but they always provide five-star customer service as well. They even offer extended warranties on their parts and services. Call today to schedule maintenance and AC service.

Give the Coolest Dad the Coolest Gift for Father's Day

someone getting a father's day gift

Schedule a New AC Installation for This Father’s Day

There are a lot of cool dads out there. But what do cool dads need for Father’s Day? How about a gift to keep them cool! Chances are, the man of the house is the first line of defense against the heat and humidity getting inside the home; he’ll be the first one to try and repair a broken air conditioner, or he’ll have to find someone who can. Make him more comfortable and take something off his to-do list by getting him a new air conditioner for Father’s Day. 

Installing a new air conditioner can have numerous benefits beyond increased comfort and giving dad some peace of mind. Local Melbourne AC installers are here to offer more reasons to get dad something for Father’s Day he will really use.

A New Air Conditioner Promotes Health

a new ac
New air conditioners can improve the health of everyone that lives in the home. An air conditioner is responsible for maintaining proper temperature and adjusting humidity and removing harmful dust and pollen from the air. Having a new air conditioner can help with health problems like:

The chances are good that dad wants the best for his family. Not only will he enjoy a new air conditioner, but he will also appreciate that it will benefit everyone else, too. 

someone sleeping

Be More Productive and Get Better Sleep

Dads work hard, so they also have to rest hard to stay productive and provide for the family. One of the best ways to keep dad going is to ensure that he is getting better sleep. A new air conditioner will give him peace of mind so that he won’t have to worry about the air conditioner anymore, but it will also provide him the perfect environment to rest and recharge. 

Studies show that the optimal temperatures for sleep are around 68-72 degrees. Maintaining these comfortable sleeping temperatures may give dad nightmares about high cooling bills, but a new energy-efficient air conditioner can help him sleep more soundly than he has in years. With peace of mind and a good night’s rest, he can be more productive than ever. 

Save Money with Energy Efficient Models

As every dad knows, the thermostat is one of the most sacred devices in the entire house. The reason for this is the thermostat represents the cooling bills, and most dads love saving money even if that means compromising the comfort of the people that share a home with them. With a new AC installation, compromises can go away. New models of air conditioners run at such high efficiencies, so dad won’t have to choose between low cooling bills and comfort. 

This Father’s Day, get a gift that will benefit the whole family and take a load off Dad’s mind. A new air conditioner that is Energy Star Rated or has a SEER rating above 13 will definitely save money during every billing cycle. Energy savings plus reduced repair costs of his current unit will make dad enjoy his new air conditioner for years to come. And the family can enjoy the benefits, too!

About Mid Florida A/C

Mid Florida A/C is a third-generation HVAC service company in Melbourne. Hundreds of excellent reviews demonstrate their company’s commitment to keeping their customers happy. This family-owned and operated business still knows how to add a personal touch to each and every job. Call Mid Florida A/C today for expert AC installation in Melbourne!

Selecting the Right Dehumidifier This Rainy Season!

this rainy season Mid Florida

Keep the Home Dry With a Dehumidifier 

It is that time of year when the rainy season kicks in and homes become horribly damp. Many homeowners know this feeling, almost like they can sense moisture in the air and cannot figure out what to do. Well, lucky for them, this is where dehumidifiers come into play!

Dehumidifiers play a crucial role in home maintenance, especially in the spring months like these. Homeowners should understand how dehumidifiers function and the types of dehumidifier options available to them so that they can decide which is best to install in their homes.   

What Is a Dehumidifier?

mold

At its most basic level, a dehumidifier works to remove moisture from the air inside homes. Dehumidifiers essentially “process” warm air- they remove water and release cooler, drier air back into the home. One of the most significant benefits of this process is that dehumidifiers reduce the likelihood of mold accumulations that often result during damp rainy seasons.

Homeowners may notice condensation throughout their house (e.g., on walls, windows, or ceilings), and these deposits create prime conditions for mold growth. By limiting indoor humidity to ~30-60% with a dehumidifier, homeowners can control and limit the spread of mold in their homes.

What Are the Basic Types of Dehumidifiers?

There are three main types of dehumidifiers, each with different processes that seek to achieve the same goal of moisture removal:dehumidifiers
  • Refrigerant– uses a fan to suck warm air into refrigerated coils, which causes moisture to condense in a water tank and cooler drier air to be released back into the home
  • Desiccant– uses a large wheel containing desiccant, which spins slowly and absorbs/condenses moisture as it comes in contact with warm air and deposits it in a water tank; lighter and smaller than a refrigerant dehumidifier and is capable of operating at much lower temperatures
  • Whole House– uses the existing infrastructure to remove moisture from the entire home by integrating directly into the HVAC system and treating air as it passes through

Which Type Is the Right Choice?

As one might anticipate, the answer to this question is, ultimately, “it depends.” However, there are correct answers, depending on what homeowners are prioritizing. When it comes down to convenience and cost, refrigerant and desiccant dehumidifiers are the way to go. However, these often only dehumidify the rooms they are placed in, assuming they are small to medium sizes.

A whole house dehumidifier is ultimately the most surefire way to treat the entire home since it is installed directly into the HVAC system. These types of dehumidifiers are extremely effective at controlling the growth of mold and any related bug infestations. Moreover, whole-house dehumidifiers are highly efficient relative to portable refrigerant and desiccant ones, which can help homeowners to save on energy bills.

At the end of the day, homeowners need to understand what goals they have in mind and any restrictions they are working with in order to determine which type of dehumidifier is best for them.

About Mid Florida A/C

Mid Florida A/C of Melbourne, FL is a family-owned and operated company that has been providing quality solutions since 1980. They believe in exceptional HVAC service and professionalism, with 100% satisfaction guarantees for all of their customers. Give them a call for AC services in Melbourne!

Overview of "HVAC"

what does it mean Mid Florida

“HVAC” Defined

“HVAC” stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. HVAC systems are interrelated systems of central heating and air conditioning that function not only to heat and cool buildings but also to facilitate proper ventilation. These regulate indoor air quality using fresh air from the outdoors. There are several types of HVAC systems, each with variations. The main difference is that some systems are packaged (combines multiple units like A/C and heat into one system), while others are split (individual units are separated). Both types achieve the same outcome, so homeowners need to decide which is most appropriate for their homes.

HVAC systems require professional installation, repair, and maintenance. In general, homeowners should have their HVAC systems inspected once a year.

Heating Overview and Services

The heating component of HVAC is used to provide warmth, typically using boilers, furnaces, or heat pumps to generate and distribute heat. Boilers use natural fuel or electricity to heat water or create steam, while furnaces heat coils that ultimately heat the air. Heat pumps do not generate heat themselves, but rather, they pull in heat from the outdoors and circulate it inside the home.

There are a number of professional services related to heating, including but not limited to:

  • Furnace repairs and maintenance
  • Furnace replacements and installations
  • Heat pump services
  • Heater replacements and installations
  • Hot water emergencies

Proper choice, installation, and maintenance of heating systems require the help of specialized professionals.

Ventilation Overview and Services

ventilationThe ventilation portion of HVAC refers to the replacement or exchange of air within a controlled space. Proper ventilation is crucial because it removes things like airborne bacteria, dust, foul odors, moisture, and smoke, all of which greatly diminish indoor air quality.

Ventilation can be either natural or forced. Natural ventilation is present in many homes and refers to the natural flow of air through windows, doors, and vents. On the other hand, mechanical ventilation is a forced system that uses an air handler unit to filter and distribute air, as is found with many HVAC systems.

Ventilation services typically relate to airflow testing and balancing to assess the operational efficiency and air duct cleaning to ensure proper airflow and clean air quality.

Air Conditioning Overview and Services

The air conditioning portion of HVAC provides cooling control by removing heat from the interior of the home and can also provide humidity control. These systems remove heat through any number of methods, including conduction, convection, and radiation.

Air conditioners typically draw heat out of the house, transfer it outdoors, and replace the indoor air with cooler air (through the ductwork). Many homes use “central air” or “split-system air conditioning, which includes indoor/outdoor units, connective tubing, expansion valves, ductwork, and thermostats.

hvacThere are several different types of air conditioning services, such as:

  • Repairs and maintenance
  • Replacements and installations
  • Air handler services
  • Ductless mini-split AC systems
  • New construction installation

Professionals should handle these services, as proper functioning allows for adequate cooling and air quality control.

About Mid Florida A/C

Mid Florida A/C of Melbourne, FL, is a family-owned and operated company that has been in business since 1980. Offering a full range of heating and air conditioning services, their team of friendly professionals will provide expert, quality workmanship with the best interests of each of their customers in mind. Give them a call for AC services in Melbourne today!

It's Not Too Early for AC Maintenance

AC Maintenance

Getting a Headstart on Springtime Maintenance

Spring hasn’t quite sprung yet, but the AC system will be working overtime to keep homes and their residents comfortable as soon as it does. But just because spring isn’t here yet doesn’t mean that homeowners should put off their springtime maintenance. In fact, getting it out of the way early won’t hurt at all— it might even help. Regular maintenance is vital for a properly functioning HVAC system. It saves homeowners money and time, and prevents major headaches. And getting the maintenance done a little early is a great idea for a few reasons. Read on to find out the importance and benefits of annual maintenance. 

There’s No Time Like Now for AC Maintenance

ac maintenance Mid FloridaThe best time for AC maintenance is whenever the homeowners are thinking about it. At some time or another, everyone has forgotten to do something important that they know they should. AC maintenance is often one of those things. Many homeowners don’t think about it until it’s too late and there’s a costly emergency to take care of.

At this time of year, the AC hasn’t been used in many months. The cobwebs, both literal and figurative, have gathered on the various components of the AC system. And pretty soon, every homeowner is going to be calling their local HVAC company for spring maintenance. So it’s good to get it out of the way a little early than to get it done late or not at all. 

Key Components That Should Be Tuned-Up and Checked

Some homeowners decide to try and save a few bucks by taking AC maintenance into their own hands. Unfortunately, unless the homeowner in question has experience and training, this can be a disaster. Checking the AC system requires expertise and special training, as well as specialized equipment and firsthand knowledge of the workings of the system. Here are some of the things that techs check during regular maintenance.

Techs clean everything in the AC system, including the fan blades, condensate drain line, and coils. Electrical connections are inspected. Belts and terminals are tightened. There are lots of moving parts that need to be lubricated and inspected to prevent excessive wear and tear. Techs also check refrigerant levels, topping the refrigerant off if it needs it. Filters are also replaced, and the ductwork checked for leaks. They also test airflow and calibrate the thermostat.

All these things, and some others, come together to make annual maintenance of the AC system. Having a professional tech do this helps keep the system running smoothly and wards off expensive repairs. 

The Benefits of Annual AC Maintenance

benefits Mid FloridaThere are several benefits to keeping an AC system properly maintained, a few of which have already been mentioned in this article. Preventing expensive repairs and inconvenience are two significant benefits. The others include keeping the air inside the home clean and saving money by reducing the energy bills. It’s also a great way to preserve peace of mind because the homeowners know they’re in good hands.

About Mid Florida A/C

Mid-Florida AC has been providing quality AC services in Melbourne, FL, since 1980. They offer personalized service and extended warranties for the owner’s peace of mind. Their techs arrive on time and are always quick to educate their customers with clear and helpful communication. Contact them to learn more about eco-friendly plumbing today!

This Year's Holiday Comforts Should Include a Pleasant Indoor Temperature

pro tips Mid Florida

Pro Tips for Keeping Your Home Comfortable All Through the  Holiday Season

This holiday season, as families get together to celebrate and spend time with one another, it’s good to reflect on the simple everyday comforts that so often get taken for granted. One amenity that is most commonly and easily overlooked is the boring old HVAC system. After all, if it’s doing its job well, it shouldn’t require much attention at all. But when it starts acting up, homeowners may find it difficult to think of anything else.

Even in the mild Florida winter, a malfunctioning unit can make for a very unpleasant time. Here are some pointers for those staying home for the holidays to help ensure a safe, happy, and comfy winter season.

Update & Upgrade the Thermostat

upgrade your thermostat Mid Florida

Many air conditioner and heater problems actually stem from an issue with the home’s thermostat. Any of a handful of small issues can impede the proper function of the whole system. Dust buildup inside the thermostat can interfere with electrical leads. Old batteries can leak and corrode internal components. Loose wiring can fry the circuit board.

Naturally, older thermostats tend to be more problematic. These usually contain a mercury bulb switch that tilts one way or the other - depending on the thermometer reading - to engage or turn off the unit. If the thermostat is not perfectly level, the mercury switch will not function properly, and the whole system will be in disarray. Newer thermostats use electronic sensors and are less prone to difficulties in general. New programmable thermostats also help increase energy efficiency by allowing homeowners to customize the temperature for each time of day.

Change the Air Filter Regularly

HVAC air filters can get very dirty very quickly, especially in homes with multiple pets or in areas with higher concentrations of dust, vegetation, or pollen. When an air filter becomes laden with dust and debris, the system’s airflow becomes choked. This puts undue strain on the air handler unit and can even result in a burnt-out blower fan motor. A filthy filter also allows more airborne junk to be taken into the unit (where it can interfere with electrical and mechanical components) and be circulated throughout the house. The impact on indoor air quality can endanger everyone’s health in the home, especially those with allergies or respiratory sensitivities.

change your filter Mid Florida

Keep a Pro’s Number Handy for Emergency Repairs

The easy DIY maintenance tasks above make a big difference, but they should not be considered a substitute for recurring professional maintenance. No HVAC unit is immune to the elements, dirt accumulation, or normal wear and tear. However, even a clean and well-tuned system can be taken out of commission by a freak occurrence or an unforeseen development. Every homeowner should be ready for the possibility of an unexpected crisis by making the acquaintance of a reputable and dependable HVAC company that will show up whenever they’re needed.

About Mid Florida A/C

Since their founding in 1980, Mid Florida A/C have proudly served Melbourne, Florida, with honesty, integrity, and professionalism. They are a family-owned and operated local business with a track record of award-winning personalized service and 5-star customer reviews. They provide up-front pricing, financing, extended & lifetime warranties, and membership programs. Give them a call for AC repair and maintenance in Central Florida.

Is the AC Failing? Know for Sure With These 3 Signs

why Mid Florida

3 Main Reasons It’s Hard To Stay Comfortable at Home

No matter where a homeowner may live, the air conditioning unit is considered a staple in the home. That is why it is so crucial to take care of the AC unit homeowners have. The better care is given, the longer the unit will last, and the more efficient it will be. In turn, it can save the homeowner money in the long run, compared to those that do not keep up with their AC unit maintenance. That said, the Melbourne residents have to know what to look for in the event that their AC unit is failing and needs to be repaired before expensive problems occur.

To learn more about the three common signs of a failing AC unit, continue reading below.

The Unit Is Being Suffocated

AC units spend their lives outside. They are forced to endure some insane Florida weather at times, and most of the time, they do so with little to no problems. That said, it is essential to take a look at the outdoor unit every so often, especially after a big storm.

Sometimes debris can gather around the unit. This might not seem like a huge deal at first, but in reality, the unit is slowly being suffocated. Much like anything else with a motor, it can overheat if the collected debris doesn’t allow for any airflow.

This is a very common occurrence and should be considered before any professionals are called to the scene.

It’s Not the Right Size

improperly sized unit Mid Florida

Homeowners add-on and renovate their homes all the time. That is the beauty of owning a home, is the ability to change and customize things to the homeowner’s preference. That said, in times like this, it can be hard to remember the AC unit. However, it must not be forgotten because it can lead to a dangerous situation in no time at all.

An AC unit that is too small for its home is overworked. Overworked AC units cause concern because it means they are working nonstop to try and accommodate the large house, but the home still won’t stay cool because it’s too big for the unit. Not only that, but it can lead to the unit breaking down or literally catching on fire.

Some common signs of an improperly sized AC unit are:

  • A rapid increase in the energy bill
  • The unit runs all the time
  • The home doesn’t stay cool
  • The unit starts making weird noises

The moment any one of these signs appears, it is vital the homeowner calls a professional as soon as possible. A professional can give expert advice on the properly sized unit for the type of home at hand.

Has the Thermostat Been Checked?

malfunctioning thermostat Mid Florida

The thermostat is something to consider as well. Often, the homeowner immediately thinks there is something wrong with the unit when they seem to have AC troubles. In reality, it could be a malfunctioning thermostat.

There is a chance it could still take a professional’s eyes to diagnose the issue properly, but homeowners should change the batteries in their thermostat before calling in a professional.

Mid Florida A/C Is There for Their Customers

When homeowners need a professional HVAC technician, look no further than the experts at Mid Florida A/C. they are there when homeowners need them because they understand how important it is to have a properly working AC unit in Florida. Don’t hesitate! Call today to schedule AC repair in Melbourne.

Keep Comfortable During Scary Movie Marathons

tips Mid Florida

Tips from the Pros on Keeping a Comfortable Temperature at Home

Scary movie marathons are a key fall activity. What better way to get into the spooky season than to watch thrillers and horror movies? It’s never truly a comfortable experience watching a scary movie. Most people spend the duration of scary movies sinking into the chair with their eyes half-closed and their hands covering their faces. But the temperature of the home shouldn’t be the reason for someone’s discomfort when watching scary movies. Therefore, HVAC professionals are sharing their top tips for keeping the house comfortable during scary movie marathons this fall.

Check for Thermostat Problems

check the thermostat Mid Florida

Tip 1 from the HVAC professionals is to check for any thermostat problems. Controlling the air temperature is one of the best ways to keep homes comfortable for fall scary movie marathons. Adjusting the temperature up or down by just a few degrees can be the difference in either overheating or shivering from the cold every few minutes.

A few of the most common problems with thermostats include the following:

  • Buildup of dust and dirt can cause the thermostat to overheat or misread the temperature.
  • Dead batteries stop the thermostat from working altogether.
  • Wear and tear of thermostat components can cause it to malfunction.

Maintaining the thermostat and making sure it functions properly is a critical piece of the puzzle for establishing great comfort at home.

As for the scary movie marathons, it’s best to keep the home a few degrees lower than normal. Blankets are a must during scary movies but cause people to be a bit warmer than normal. Colder temperatures can help everyone stay comfortable.

Switch Out Air Filters

Tip 2 from the HVAC professionals is to replace dirty air filters. Air temperature isn’t the only piece of the puzzle for feeling comfortable at home. Air quality also has a large role in this. Too much dust, dirt, and other particles floating through the air can irritate people’s breathing and make it harder to stay healthy. To prevent this from happening, homeowners need to remember to switch out their air filters when they get too dirty. If they’re too dirty, they can’t do their job; they stop trapping dust and dirt, and those particles start to move through the home instead.

As for how often the filters need to be changed, it all depends on the thickness of the filters. A 1-inch or 2-inch filter should be changed out about every three months, a 4-inch filter should be changed every six months, and a 5-inch filter should be changed once a year. This should be used as a rule of thumb, but homeowners can always check the label or directions on their air filter to know the expected lifetime.

Stop Forgetting Scheduled Maintenance Visits

maintenance Mid Florida

Tip 3 from HVAC professionals is to remember to schedule regular maintenance visits. These maintenance checks help to catch components that are malfunctioning or starting to experience wear and tear before it becomes a larger problem. HVAC professionals are always the best individuals to handle these maintenance visits because they can easily spot potential problems. Fall is truly the best time to have the HVAC system checked. By doing so, homeowners can rest assured that their HVAC system is ready to handle the cooler winter months that lie ahead.

About Mid Florida A/C

Since 1980, Florida heating and AC service provider, Mid Florida A/C, has understood how stressful it can be to come home to a failing furnace or air conditioner. This is why they make homeowners’ indoor comfort a priority. They start every job by getting to the source of the problem, so they are able to provide customers with an accurate and effective solution.

How UV Air Sanitizers and Air Purifiers Are Different

uv air sanitizer vs air purifier

With advances in technology and new information coming out every year about the different ways to clean the air, it’s no wonder people are unsure of these differences. After all, people often say ‘Air Purifier’ when what they mean is ‘Air Sanitizer,’ and vice-versa.

The truth is that there are some pretty big differences between these two systems. Read on to discover what each does, how they do it, and each of their benefits.

What Is the Difference?

an air sanitizer & air purifier

UV Air Sanitizers: UV stands for Ultraviolet Light, and it’s effective in neutralizing harmful particles that tend to float around in our air. Typically, an everyday AC system can trap many particles that come into the home, but not all of them.

Some experts estimate that indoor air quality in many homes is worse than outdoor air quality. When homeowners think about all the smog, dust, dirt, and grime that floats around outside, that’s a pretty scary thought.

UV air sanitizers use UV lights installed directly into their AC system to kill particles like mold, bacteria, and viruses. The amount of UV light used is completely safe, and they won’t even know that it’s there. The only evidence will be the cleaner air they breathe!

Air Purifiers: Air purifiers, on the other hand, use filters and a fan to remove particles from the air. The fan sucks air into the filter and moves it through the filters to eliminate many of the air particles. Many air purifiers are portable, so they can put them in a room and purify the air there. Some purifiers are available for integration into existing AC systems, but they’re a little rarer and more expensive.

When considering an air purifier, it’s best to determine what kind of air quality they’re looking for. They come with different filters and are rated based on the size of particles they have been shown to eliminate.

The best filters, for instance, are HEPA filters, which stand for high-efficiency particulate air. These filters are generally rated to remove up to 99.96% of airborne particles; however, homeowners should always confirm their system is compatible first.

The Benefits of Each System

UV air sanitizers are great because they are installed in the AC system, usually near the coils. This allows the UV light to kill harmful particles at the source so they don’t have a chance to enter the air.

benefits

They also don’t require that homeowners change an extra filter like they would on an air purifier. However, they will probably have to replace the light bulb or bulbs every two years or so.

Air purifiers are great because they’re relatively inexpensive and portable. If they want to buy one for a particular room, it’s pretty easy. They don’t have to have a professional install it because they can set it up quickly. However, they do take up space and require that they change the filter regularly.

Who Would Need One of These Systems?

woman asking why

While neither system is 100% effective at removing airborne particles, they both do a good job of eliminating many of them. As a result, they’re great for people who have allergies, lung problems, or are immunocompromised.

They’re also great for people who want to breathe cleaner air, particularly to improve sleep. For a whole-home system, UV air sanitizers are probably their best bet. But, if they want to put a purifier in their family room to keep the air clean, a purifier is the way to go. They can also place one in a household member’s room who suffers from allergies to help them breathe easier.

No matter which one a homeowner is considering, calling a local AC expert will get them an idea of what’s available in their area and what’s best for their home.

About Mid Florida A/C

Mid Florida A/C has been serving Melbourne since 1980. They’ve never stopped providing excellent service, competitive pricing, and stellar workmanship to mid-Florida residents in all those years. They’ve also maintained an A+ BBB rating for 37 years!