Johnny On the Spot Blog: Archive for the ‘Uncategorized’ Category

Never Cleaned Your Ducts? Learn Why Duct Cleaning Is Important

Sunday, April 22nd, 2018

Your HVAC system’s ductwork distributes heated and cooled air throughout your Las Vegas, NV, home or business. However, because ducts are hidden behind walls, under crawl spaces and in attics, they’re easy to forget. Ducts need maintenance as much your visible HVAC equipment. Here’s why it’s a good idea to invest in duct cleaning for your residential or commercial property.

It Improves Indoor Air Quality for Better Health

Over time, ducts can become infested with allergens and contaminants that cause short and long-term illnesses. Pet dander, dust mites, pollen, bacteria, viruses, spores, and pests can take up residence in the dark and humid environment of the ductwork. Whenever your HVAC system cycles on, these particles can blow into your Las Vegas home and pollute your indoor air. Duct cleaning removes these pollutants from your ducts so that the air you breathe is clean and not detrimental to your health.

Duct Cleaning Increases HVAC Efficiency

Dirt, dust, debris and other obstructions can also impede airflow through the ducts and overwork your system. Overworked HVAC components break down easily, and this wear and tear can also shorten your system’s lifespan because of the damage to the equipment over time. If the units have to work harder to maintain even basic performance levels, energy usage and utility bills will likely increase. Getting rid of ductwork gunk that obstructs airflow helps to keep indoor comfort high and energy bills low.

You Save Money by Preventing Duct Leaks

The buildup of particles can damage your ducts. Ductwork will develop cracks and leaks through which heated and cooled air escapes. The US Department of Energy estimates that the average home loses 20 to 30 percent of treated air through leaky and poorly-connected ducts. During duct cleaning, our technicians will identify any problems and provide honest recommendations. Sealing duct leaks will also prevent energy loss, increase HVAC efficiency and decrease utility bills.

Learn more about how duct cleaning and preventive maintenance protect your equipment, maximize indoor comfort, reduce energy consumption, and improve indoor air quality to support good health. Contact your service specialists at Johnny On The Spot by calling(725) 977-9461.

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How Spring AC Maintenance Helps You Beat the Summer Heat

Tuesday, April 10th, 2018

With an average annual high of 80 degrees and sweltering summer weather that routinely brings triple-digit temperatures, it’s not easy to keep your cool in the Las Vegas, NV, area. It also isn’t cheap. Effective air conditioning is virtually mandatory to live comfortably in the region, and that can often mean high energy costs. While devices like smart thermostats can offer some energy savings, one of the best energy efficiency boosters is also the simplest: routine maintenance. To learn more, let’s take a look at how spring AC maintenance can help you keep your cool – and your cash.

Prepare Your System for Battle

You wouldn’t embark on a cross-country trip without ensuring your car is tuned up and well-maintained, so why head into the scorching heat of summer without making sure your HVAC system is up to the task? Dirty air filters alone can sap up to 15 percent of your system’s energy. Leaky ducts, worn-out mechanical components, and other potential issues could be preventing your HVAC system from operating properly. Professional inspection and a routine maintenance program can identify and correct these problems during spring. We’ll ensure that you benefit from optimal energy efficiency and real savings on your utility bills when the time comes for you to crank up the air conditioning.

Routine Maintenance Can Boost Reliability

While installing a high-quality air conditioning system is certainly a worthwhile investment, having to replace an existing system that has failed is a surprise that no one wants. HVAC system failures are especially problematic in the summer when an unexpected breakdown can mean having to suffer through the heat until you arrange for a new installation. Regular AC maintenance is a great way to boost the service life and reliability of your system, so you save money on repairs and safeguard your home against a system failure at the worst possible time.

An effective and efficient HVAC system is a must-have when you live in the Las Vegas area. To find out what you can do to keep your system working at its best for years to come, check out Johnny On The Spot’s comprehensive maintenance services or call(725) 977-9461 to speak with a helpful representative today.

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How to Enjoy HVAC Comfort Year-Round in Las Vegas

Wednesday, March 28th, 2018

Residents of Las Vegas, NV, experience record high temperatures during the summer months. Consistently high temperatures can make it hard to stay cool on a budget. Then, winter in our area can bring temperatures near freezing point. At Johnny On The Spot, we offer HVAC maintenance, repairs, and energy-efficient heating and cooling systems that make temperature management a breeze. Choose us for commercial or residential HVAC, and we’ll make it easy for you to enjoy HVAC comfort year-round.

The High-Performance Upgrades You Need

If you’re only able to keep comfortable when the weather is mild, you need to take action now. Winter and summer temperatures in our area can be unforgiving. At either extreme, unless you have reliable heating and cooling, you could be risking occupants’ health and safety. When you get rid of your inefficient system and make that upgrade:

  • You increase the level of comfort and safety.
  • You maximize energy efficiency, and lower utility bills mean greater savings.
  • You benefit from better indoor air quality.

Check out our specials page for offers that could help you save on your upgrade. Our service specialists will help you understand what you need to do to keep your system in peak condition.

Taking Care of Your HVAC System

Caring for your HVAC system ensures its longevity. Regular filter changes and seasonal maintenance can make a big difference in comfort and system performance. Schedule heater maintenance in fall and AC maintenance in spring. By doing so, you ensure your systems will be in good condition to take on the temperatures ahead.

You can avoid frequent repairs or even stave off early replacement when you take care of your heating and cooling systems. You can’t go wrong with “The Johnny’s Touch” maintenance program. We check every component and make necessary repairs. Additional benefits include priority scheduling and discounts and free diagnostics on repairs.

We’re All About Your Comfort—365

Make an appointment for a consultation as soon as you notice any problem with your system. A delay could cost you more. Johnny On The Spot is ready with the tools, products, services, and expertise to guarantee year-round in your office or business. Call us today at(725) 977-9461 for installation, repairs, or maintenance.

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All You Need to Know About Ductless AC Units

Friday, March 16th, 2018

If you’re in the process of remodeling or adding on to your Summerlin, NV, home, then you are likely thinking of ways to make your home more comfortable without breaking the bank. A ductless AC unit could go a long way toward giving you the energy-saving and comfort benefits you seek. Ductless AC units offer many benefits that their ducted partner cannot—like greater control and improved indoor air quality.

Get in the Zone for Comfort

Flexibility is a significant advantage of ductless AC units or ductless mini-split systems. These units consist of an indoor component that connects to an outdoor compressor via a narrow tube. This design, and the fact that they do not use ducts mean you can easily install them in any room. You can choose single-zone or multi-zone systems.

Each unit comes with a remote control, so persons can set the temperature they prefer in their area or zone. You put an end to thermostat wars with this customization, and you can also activate the system only when needed, so you save energy. Occupants can customize heating and cooling without changing the temperature throughout the house.

Great for Indoor Air Quality

The absence of ductwork means you eliminate the problem of debris collecting in ducts and then circulating through rooms in your home or building. Ductless mini-splits have multi-stage filtration that removes dust, pollen and other contaminants.

Their design also makes cleaning and maintenance easy. Don’t let the IAQ advantage go to waste by neglecting to schedule seasonal tuneup for your ductless AC.

Energy and Cost Efficient

You save energy with a ductless AC. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, a ductless mini-split uses 60% less energy than standard electric home heating systems. This is because they transfer rather than, generate heat. Similarly, in cooling mode, you can reduce cooling costs by 30% compared to conventional ACs. Their compressors and fans adjust speeds, so you save energy.

If you’re thinking about upgrading or adding to your home, then maybe you should give ductless AC units some serious consideration. If you would like to learn more about these systems, call Johnny On The Spot today at(725) 977-9461.

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How a Smart Thermostat Improves AC Efficiency

Monday, March 5th, 2018

There was a time when persons would jokingly say that, “one day, computers will run everything.” Today, that sentiment is no longer far-fetched. It is in fact, much closer to reality. Thanks to advancements in home automation technology, you can operate nearly every device in your Henderson, NV, home by remote control. Your HVAC system is no different, and a smart thermostat adds more than convenience, it can optimize air conditioning efficiency and energy savings, too.

Get Detailed Energy Reports

Smart thermostats can generate reports that show how much energy you are using, and how you may be wasting energy. The in-depth information helps you to understand how you can make adjustments to reduce your energy bills. You’ll be able to make comparative analyses and review your energy consumption patterns over time. Programming options help you save energy without compromising comfort.

Programmable Schedules

Usually, your thermostat is set to one temperature, or you rarely change the setting. You could be wasting a lot of energy! Smart thermostats bring ease, convenience, and flexibility to heating and air conditioning. These devices allow you to program temperatures based on your schedule. That is, you can set specific and energy-saving temperatures based on whether or not you are at home, awake or sleeping.

You save energy because, for example, if a 75-degree setting is ideal when you’re home, there’s no need to keep the thermostat at the same temperature when you’re away. With a smart thermostat, you won’t have to worry about making these adjustments. The Wi-Fi option means you can also make changes from any location. Many of these thermostats are so smart that they can study your behavior and make automatic temperature changes!

We’re Your Heating and Cooling Experts

As your HVAC pros, we offer the products and services that help you save. Improving AC efficiency is easy with Johnny On The Spot. We have a selection of smart thermostats to suit your style and budget. Thanks to technology, now there is a smart way to make your home more comfortable for less. Call us today at(725) 977-9461 to find out how you can upgrade your device

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How To Change Your Air Filter

Friday, December 15th, 2017

Having a dirty air filter can cause lower the quality and performance causing it to overheat and worsen the air inside your households. If you start to notice your air filters getting dusty, it’s time to have it changed immediately. Air filters need to be taken care of on a regular basis for system maintenance, good air quality and prolonged lifespan. When tended to on a monthly basis, there’s a lower risk of your air filter experiencing damages that can lead to expensive repairs. To skip the headaches and having to spend more, air filters are quick to clean and change so you can easily do it on your own in the comfort of your home. Here are a few easy methods to follow when changing your air filter.

What’s An Air Filter

An air filter is installed in your HVAC system. The main purpose of an air filter is to capture large amounts of dust, pollen, mold, insects and bacteria circulating around your household. If you have family members suffering from dust allergies, asthma, colds or any kind of sickness, it’s necessary to have a fresh air filter since it provides cleaner air. It also helps avoid illnesses caused by dusts and air-borne diseases. Air filters usually come in different functions, prices and MERV ratings, all fit for your household needs.

Steps on How to Change the Air Filter

1. Clean It

When you spot gunk and piles of dust surround the filter, it’s time you change it. To replace your filter, you’ll have to turn off your unit for safety precautions then you can proceed to remove the air filter. Once the air filter is removed use a cloth to wipe the area surrounding the surfaces and be cautious of the dust that will fall out. You can also clean the frame with a cloth or a vacuum. Further clean it by watering it down with a hose. Prevent bacteria build up by scrubbing it with a water solution or vinegar, and once the cleaning process is done just dry it out.

2. Install It

When putting in the new filter, just follow the directions of how to place it which you can see on the frame.There are arrows that indicate which side should go first when installing the air filter so you can slide it in with ease. Lastly, put back the filter cap and you’re done changing your air filter.

Changing your air filter won’t take too much time and does not cost much.To avoid damages on your air filter, it’s advised to change your air filter on a monthly basis. If you need further assistance in changing your air filters, contact us to help you out with the job. For other expert HVAC advice or issues that require a properly trained and licensed HVAC professional, call Johnny On The Spot at (725) 977-9461.

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Why Isn’t My Home Heating Up?

Friday, December 1st, 2017

Ice, snow, and possibly blizzards, are a few of the frustrating things to deal with during the long cold months. And a heating system not quite doing its job of keeping your house warm is just unbelievable. This is quite an annoying situation, though very common. There may be problems with the evaporator coils, wiring, pipes or ducts, filters, or the motors. Any of these problems would need a professional repair assistance. Do not attempt to fix it by yourself as it may cause further damage and may cost you more than just a few hundred dollars.

Before you slam and scream at your thermostats for being useless, there are a few typical reasons why your system is not working.

A Faulty Thermostat

There are many reasons why the thermostat may not be working properly. The freezing temperatures outside may have strained your furnace. Older thermostats may need to be leveled. Check if the breaker is working and check if the door is properly closed. Check for burnt fuses.

You could determine what part is not working by running a few checkpoints. If your system has coilers, check if you can feel any heat from the furnace when it is on. If there is barely any to no heat, your boilers may need replacement.

Clogged Ducts

Another checkpoint is your ducts or pipes. A lack of airflow from the ducts means that it is clogged with dirt or other debris.

Blower Motors

Blower motors may need replacement if it is frayed, cracked, or lost its tension.

Ignition

An electronic igniter or pilot light is responsible for lighting the gas or propane central heating. If the igniter doesn’t light or the pilot light has no flame, call a professional to replace the igniter.

Dirty Filters

Filters need to be cleaned at least twice a year like a dental cleaning. Remove your screens and check if your filters require cleaning. Dust and other dirt may accumulate in your filters and sometimes be the root of your system not functioning well. Ideal time to clean or replace filters will be in spring or fall just right before the season wherein your air conditioning system works the hardest.

Lack Of Maintenance

All of the abovementioned faulty parts of your system may be traced back to poor maintenance. Over the year, household chores are often put off especially when it comes to maintenance if the furnace seems to be working fine prior to the incident. Even if your systems seem to have no problems, it is in your best interest if regular maintenance is done to avoid damages that will hinder the system working properly and will cause you to shell out hundreds or thousands of dollars for repair and utility bills.

It is not pleasant to suffer the cold of the bitter winter. If your heating system is not working, determine the source of the problem, but do not attempt resolving it by yourself. Call Johnny On The Spot at (725) 977-9461 so we can provide the support you need!

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4 Questions To Ask Your HVAC Pro

Wednesday, November 15th, 2017

Are you finding yourself in need of HVAC maintenance or repairs this holiday season? If you need to go ahead and hire an expert, there are a few questions you want to make sure you ask before you allow any HVAC company to work on your system. Keep these in mind when you are calling to hire a pro.

Do You Have Insurance?

Because HVAC systems require some heavy lifting, as well as costly repairs if something doesn’t go right, an HVAC pro will be equipped with insurance to cover any mistakes or accidents that can occur while on the job. HVAC experts are trained to safely work on your system, but unforeseen accidents may still occur, so be sure to ask if the company has insurance and what it covers when they’re working on your unit. That way you are aware of the liability should anything happen.

Are You Licensed And Accredited?

HVAC professionals are highly trained because of the intricacies of HVAC systems’ designs. In order to safely repair, install, and replace units, HVAC pros are working with extensive knowledge to make sound decisions. Your HVAC expert should have proper licensing and accreditation. The North American Technician Excellence, or NATE, provides this accreditation so be sure to hire a pro who has this. It’s also favorable for the company to be under Energy Star, which approves energy-efficient appliances.

Can I Have A Written Estimate?

Most HVAC companies provide a free consultation to check out your unit before they start any work. Prior to them beginning, you should receive a detailed cost breakdown of what needs repairing. They should not begin any tasks until you receive this quote. A real pro will make sure you completely understand what the issues are with your unit and what the cost will be for their services.

What Maintenance Tasks Can I Do Myself?

When maintaining an HVAC unit, there are several things you can do yourself. Make sure you stay on top of cleaning and replacing your filters and keeping debris away from your outdoor unit. If you aren’t sure how to maintain your HVAC unit, call in an expert to show you some things you can do yourself before you call them in for repairs. Taking care of your investment will help save you money down the road should any issues with your system arise. A willing HVAC expert showing you what you can do is a good indicator they are honest and forthcoming with information, making them someone you want to hire for a repair or replacement in the future.

Having any repairman come into your home when you’re not fully informed can be stressful. By asking these questions, you will be able to weed out the unfavorable HVAC pros. For trusted experts who meet these expectations and more, contact Johnny On The Spot for a free consultation at (725) 977-9461.

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3 Ways To Insulate Your Home For Winter

Wednesday, November 1st, 2017

Winter is fast approaching. Therefore ensure that your home is properly insulated for this chilly season. This is not just to keep your home warm, but also to make sure your HVAC’s performance is optimized, and its efficiency is secure throughout the season. And of course, you wouldn’t want a scary, soaring utility cost at the end of each month, would you? So, let’s gear up and start insulating!

Here are three cost-efficient and easy ways to insulate your home:

Draft-Proof Your Home

If you feel any draft entering your home, you should patch up all the places where it can possibly enter like the gap between your door and floor, the space and cracks between your windows, and your attic.

Seal Your Windows

Run your fingers across and around your window to find out whether your window has small cracks in it, or if there are any small spaces where outside air can get through. If you feel some cool air brushing your fingertips, then you just caught an open crack! Patch it with the caulk of your choice. You can choose between the latex variety and the silicone which is more flexible to weather and temperature changes than the latex.

Fill in the Gaps

The draft can also come from underneath the gap between your door and the floor. To prevent the cold wind from entering, place a draft snake beneath or if you have any foam pipe lagging, you can also use it as an alternative to draft snakes. For the spaces between the wall and your doors and windows, use an insulating tape to seal it away.

Pay Attention to Your Attic

Your attic should not be considered as just a mere storage room. As part of the insulating process, you must pay close attention to this section of your house. Warm air can easily escape from your attic and likewise, it is an easy entrance for cold, bitter winds to get through your home. You can do a simple Do-It-Yourself attic insulation or, if you are uncertain how to do it, you can always ask for a professional’s help.

There are usually two types of materials used in attic insulation: first, the loose fill which is ideal for irregular attic joist spacing and second, the batt which is best for attics without insulation but have standard joist spacing.

Use Insulated or Layered Curtains

Heat from your home can easily escape if your windows don’t have curtains at all in them or if you are using a thin curtain layer. Aside from adding beauty to our homes, curtains also aid in our home insulation. Use an insulated curtain for a longer-lasting heat suppression inside your home. If such is not available, apply several layers of curtains which you already have in hand. You can also use thick cloths like wool or fleece blanket as curtains.

Determine Your Heating Area

Not all area inside your home needs equivalent temperature. Which part of your home do you frequently stay? Once you determine the zone you usually spend time in, you can set the other temperature from the rest of your home to a lower heating degree. Remember to always keep your room’s door shut to optimize your HVAC’s heating process and maintain the warmth inside that area without exerting too much effort on your heating system.

Insulating your home helps keep your family comfortable throughout the winter season. It also helps your HVAC to work more efficiently considering that you also have your seasonal HVAC maintenance performed. In case you can’t do the insulation alone, do not hesitate to call a professional for help. For more helpful tips on how to insulate your home, call Johnny On The Spot at (725) 977-9461.

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4 Reasons Seasonal Maintenance Is Necessary

Monday, October 30th, 2017

Seasonal maintenance is important in keeping your HVAC system running and working efficiently throughout the season. It is recommended to have at least a biannual maintenance program to ensure your system’s efficiency. However, do you know that there are other reasons why seasonal maintenance is necessary?

Prevents Sudden Breakdowns

Imagine it’s the middle of a freezing winter night or the heat is at its peak in summer when suddenly, your HVAC breaks down. Incidents like these are inconvenient for every homeowner. What’s worse is when you are clueless of what went wrong and what part of the system has broken down. If you apply for a seasonal maintenance program, you’ll avoid situations like these because your system will get a thorough inspection and necessary minor repairs to ensure it is ready for the season.

Lowers Utility Bills

If your HVAC system does not get proper maintenance, it is no longer economical no matter how high its SEER rating is. Its inefficiency is noticeable when your monthly utility bills are higher than usual. To prevent this from happening, ensure that you keep the air filters, evaporator coils, and condenser coils of your HVAC clean and free from heavy dust build-up. On the other hand, your HVAC contractor will perform the in-depth evaluation of your system from the ductworks to the wiring and insulation.

Conducting HVAC maintenance will help your system boost and sustain its efficiency. It is a great way for you to save money and avoid unnecessary additional energy bill charges.

Gives Equipment A Longer Lifespan

Well-maintained HVAC equipment has an average lifespan of 15 – 20 years. Its lifespan is only attainable if maintained accordingly. Your HVAC system is a lifetime investment. Therefore, you should look after it and make sure that it works efficiently until such time.

Longer lifespan means lesser chances for you to unnecessarily purchase a new HVAC system just because of your not-so-old unit which refuses to provide you your much needed comfort. Our HVAC system is not a money investment alone. When you invest in an HVAC system, you invest in you and your family’s comfort all throughout the years.

Ensures Health and Safety

Carbon monoxide is a deadly toxic gas released by heating systems. To avoid this from happening, make sure that there is no carbon monoxide leakage from your system. You can purchase a carbon monoxide detector for your own safety. Have HVAC system tuned-up and inspected on a regular basis by your trusted HVAC maintenance provider.

HVAC maintenance also helps prevent catastrophic residential fire breakouts. Your technician will check the wire insulation of your equipment as part of their evaluation. It will help prevent any short circuits in the future which is a common origin for the fire to start.

Maintaining your HVAC system has a lot of benefits that you couldn’t have possibly thought about. And yes, there is still a lot more to it. So, what are you waiting for? Apply for your seasonal maintenance program now!

For your trusted HVAC maintenance provider in Las Vegas area, visit us now at Johnny-On-The-Spot or call us (725) 977-9461. Your HVAC system is in good hands with our accredited HVAC experts!

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