Start Strong: How to Make Your New Home Energy Efficient

October 30th, 2018

You’ve finally taken the leap and purchased a new home in the Las Vegas, Nevada, area. While you’re probably in a hurry to start unpacking and settle in, there’s one important thing you should think about first: energy efficiency. Take the time to make your new home energy efficient so that you can manage comfort and keep your utility bills in check.

Invest in a Programmable Thermostat

You might not remember to reset your thermostat every day before you leave for work. A programmable thermostat makes this easy as you can enter preferred temperatures based on your schedule. Go a step further and try a smart thermostat. Many current versions have sensors to monitor when you’re at home and adjust the temperature accordingly.

Change the Air Filter

Chances are, the seller of your home had a lot on their mind while closing the sale and moving out. It’s likely that they neglected to change the HVAC system’s air filter before they left. You need to change it every one to three months. It’s a good idea to check the filter as soon as you move in.

Clean Your Outdoor Unit

If you have an outdoor AC unit, it can collect dirt and debris over time. This is especially true in the fall when dead leaves can accumulate and completely block the coils. Give the outdoor unit a thorough inspection and remove any sticks, plants, or dirt. You may even want to clean the grille; just make sure to turn off the system so that it doesn’t cycle on during cleaning. If hosing off the debris doesn’t work, leave the maintenance to the professionals to avoid system damage.

One of the best ways to improve energy efficiency is to invest in regular HVAC maintenance. Johnny On The Spot is happy to offer preventive HVAC maintenance to homes and businesses throughout the Las Vegas area. With our preventative maintenance checkups, your system will use less energy, last longer, and need fewer repairs. Don’t wait until the shock of your first utility bill—call us now at(725) 977-9461 to schedule your appointment.

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Did You Know Your AC Can Help You to Fight Allergies?

October 20th, 2018

You’re doing everything you can to fight the allergies that plague you on a daily basis. You clean meticulously, and you stay inside when the air in Las Vegas, Nevada, is less than ideal. If you’re finding it hard to tackle indoor allergens, your air conditioner could make a difference. In addition to maintaining comfort in your home, your AC can also help you to fight allergies by removing airborne contaminants.

Keep Filters Clean

Particles in the air throughout your home can cause allergic reactions. Ideally, your HVAC system should capture these pollutants via the filter to keep them from circulating. However, while filters help to keep the air clean, they can also present problems if you do not clean or change them regularly. Check your HVAC filter at least once a month. Replace it when dirty to avoid poor indoor air quality and reduced HVAC efficiency.

Improve Air Circulation

An efficient AC improves air circulation. If the system is not moving air effectively or the filter is dirty, clean air circulation will be a problem. A dirty system can also cause contaminants to circulate throughout your home. We provide maintenance services, and our service specialists will thoroughly clean your system. We can also install a whole-home ventilator for enhanced air cleaning. This device moves stale air outside and draws in clean, fresh air.

Manage Humidity

Here in Las Vegas, we don’t need to worry about high humidity, but it’s still important to remember the effect of low humidity. Too little water content in the air can be a problem indoors as well as outdoors. We can ensure your air conditioner and thermostat manage humidity levels year-round. We also have portable and whole-home equipment to help you control humidity.

Your air conditioner does far more than keep you cool; it’s also the key to cleaner air and a healthy home. We’ll help to ensure that your AC helps you fight allergies and protects your household’s overall health. To keep your air conditioner clean and allergens at bay, call Johnny On The Spot at(725) 977-9461 and improve your indoor air quality today.

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Why You Shouldn’t Miss Offers on Air Duct Cleaning & IAQ Services

October 10th, 2018

Indoor air quality (IAQ) should be a big deal for homes and businesses in the Las Vegas, Nevada, region. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) found that indoor air is often significantly more polluted than outdoor air. Add that to dry, dusty conditions in our region and indoor air quality can be a year-round battle. Your team at Johnny On The Spot is happy to offer air duct cleaning and IAQ services and savings to protect occupants of area homes and businesses.

Managing IAQ Threats

Dust, pollen, viruses, fungi, and chemicals are among the myriad airborne pollutants found in many homes and businesses. Volatile organic compounds or VOCs, are gases that come from commonly used items like carpet, deodorant, furniture, and paint. Tobacco smoke and pet dander are also a problem for many households. Depending on the nature of the business, indoor air quality can be a real concern.

Pollutants often settle in ductwork and re-enter the indoor air in greater amounts when the HVAC unit cycles on. Excessive dust around vents or on furnishings is a sign on IAQ problems. You might also notice a prevalent musty odor. However, it is important to bear in mind that you cannot see many IAQ threats and some, like carbon monoxide, are odorless and colorless.

Professional Solutions

You also won’t be able to see animal droppings or other debris that build up in the ductwork. We have the equipment and expertise to inspect and sanitize ducts. We also install Trane systems with high-efficiency filters. Be sure to check your air filter regularly and change it when it is dirty.

Contaminants in the air can cause sneezing, headaches, and dizziness or trigger respiratory problems. However, there can be serious long-term consequences like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or even cancer. Businesses and households can reduce medical costs by being vigilant about IAQ.

Free Estimates on Air Duct Cleaning & IAQ Services

Johnny On The Spot offers effective duct cleaning and IAQ services in the Las Vegas, Nevada area. Don’t hesitate to find out how you can get a free estimate on air duct cleaning and IAQ services. You’ll have the opportunity to check your indoor air so you can take action. Call us today at(725) 977-9461 to ensure you don’t miss out on this limited time offer!

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Professional vs. DIY HVAC Maintenance Tasks

September 27th, 2018

Your HVAC system plays a vital role in keeping your Las Vegas, Nevada, home comfortable. Therefore, you have to make sure that it’s always in good working condition. Taking HVAC maintenance into your own hands can give you a sense of achievement and help you save money. However, you should know that some tasks may require professional expertise or equipment. Find out which HVAC maintenance tasks you can do and which you should leave to a professional.

DIY Maintenance Tasks

Air Filter Replacement

Changing the air filter in your HVAC unit is an important maintenance task. A dirty or clogged air filter can put strain on your equipment and make it less energy efficient. Extra demand on your AC increases the likelihood of mechanical malfunctions. Additionally, a dirty filter causes dust, dander, and other allergens to circulate throughout the rooms of your home. You should replace your air filter on a monthly basis or as soon as it becomes dirty.

Checking the Outdoor Condenser

This is another easy maintenance task that can have a significant impact on your HVAC system’s performance. Check your outdoor unit regularly or especially after landscaping maintenance or outdoor projects. Make sure no debris or other objects are caught in the unit. Anything embedded within the unit will need professional service to prevent damage. Trim back any trees or shrubs growing too close to the unit.

Professional HVAC Maintenance Tasks

HVAC Repairs

Your HVAC system has many components. A professional has the right tools and experience to make an accurate assessment and repairs. Don’t hesitate to call our knowledgeable service specialists for help. If you attempt repairs, you may end up worsening the initial problem or causing damage to other parts of the system.

Annual Tuneup

While you can perform some HVAC maintenance tasks, you should schedule regular tuneups with a professional HVAC technician. Besides keeping your system clean, our service specialists will also conduct a comprehensive checkup to ensure everything is in good working order.

Proper maintenance will ensure you have an energy-efficient and longer-lasting HVAC system. If you need more information about our HVAC maintenance services, call Johnny On The Spot at(725) 977-9461.

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The Importance of Properly Sized HVAC Coils

September 17th, 2018

If you want to maintain a comfortable environment in your Henderson, Nevada, home, you have to make sure that your HVAC system is always in tiptop condition. Every component must work properly. HVAC coils transfer heat and moisture from inside your home to the outdoors, and they can cause several problems if they’re not the right size. Find out why it’s essential to have correctly sized coils in your HVAC system.

How HVAC Coils Work

There are two sets of coils in your HVAC system: evaporator and condenser coils. The evaporator coil, located in the indoor air handler, absorbs heat and moisture from the indoor air. Also known as the indoor coil, this component then transfers the heat to the condenser coils via refrigerant coils. The condenser coils then release the heat and moisture into the outdoor air. When the indoor and outdoor coils are the right sizes, your AC system will perform the heat transfer efficiently.

Problems With Incorrect Sizing

If the evaporator and condenser coils aren’t the right sizes, the one that is smaller will not be able to keep up with the larger design. As a result, your AC will have to work harder to keep you comfortable. The additional strain not only makes the system more susceptible to mechanical problems, but it will also cause an increase in your energy bills.

When to Replace Your HVAC Coils

If you need to replace one set of coils, you have to ensure the replacement matches the other set. It’s a good idea to replace both coils at the same time. You’ll avoid damage to your system or a complete system failure because of mismatched coils. If you’re wondering if there’s a problem with your HVAC coils, the best way to know is to consult our service specialists.

You might not be able to tell if the problem with your system is as a result of issues with your coils. Contact the experts at Johnny On The Spot today. We will examine your system and provide an honest assessment. Give us a call at(725) 977-9461 for expert solutions.

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What a Blank Thermostat Screen Means

September 3rd, 2018

When your HVAC’s thermostat is in good working condition, you can easily adjust the indoor temperature in your Las Vegas, Nevada, home. However, your thermostat will eventually show signs of wear and may begin to malfunction over time. One common problem is nothing showing on the device. A blank thermostat display can result from several issues, many of which require only a simple fix. Find out some of the reasons your thermostat’s screen could go blank and what you can do.

Batteries Are Dead

While some HVAC thermostats run on the main power supply in homes, others use batteries that you will need to replace approximately once a year. If your thermostat runs on batteries and has a blank display, you may be able to get it working again by simply replacing old batteries.

Tripped Circuit Breaker

Your HVAC thermostat may be on the same circuit breaker as other devices that use a lot of power. If the breaker trips, it may cut off power to the thermostat, resulting in a blank screen. All you need to do to fix the problem is flip the circuit breaker switch on again.

Safety Switch Was Activated

Some HVAC systems will automatically activate a safety switch when they detect problems, in turn, shutting off the thermostat. During the warmer months, this can happen when the condensate pan overflows. Regardless of what problem triggers the safety switch, you should contact our service specialists for an inspection as soon as possible.

Your Thermostat Is Too Old

Your thermostat can last a long time. However, how well you use and care for the device are important factors. On average, a thermostat can work well for up to 15 years before you start to encounter problems. If you think age is a factor, our service specialists will help you to determine if you need a replacement.

If your thermostat is showing a blank screen, you won’t be able to make adjustments to the device or your system won’t work at all. Give us a call for repairs so that we can restore comfort as quickly as possible. If you need help with any HVAC thermostat problem, contact Johnny On The Spot at(725) 977-9461.

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5 Home Upgrades That Help You Reduce Your Carbon Footprint

August 27th, 2018

Air pollution is a global problem, but we can all do our part to reduce its effects on our communities. Reducing energy consumption or energy waste in your Las Vegas, Nevada, home does not have to involve expensive or time-consuming upgrades. Simple changes can go a long way. Learn how you can reduce your carbon footprint to help protect the environment and even keep a little more money in your wallet.

Weatherproof Your Home

One way to optimize air conditioning efficiency is to ensure that your home has adequate insulation. The areas that typically need a little reinforcement against loss of conditioned air are attics, walls, floors, foundations, basements, and ducts. Don’t forget to protect your home from drafts, too. Seal gaps or cracks around windows and floors, between floorboards, and around electrical fittings and pipes.

Replace Your Air Conditioner

Even if your old AC has no performance issues, it might still be wasting energy because of its age. If your AC is more than 15 years old, consider upgrading it to a new one. Modern air conditioners are more energy-efficient and can significantly reduce your cooling bill. This is one effective way to reduce your carbon footprint without sacrificing comfort.

Upgrade Your Lighting

Upgrading your lighting is one of the easiest and most inexpensive ways to reduce your carbon footprint. Consider switching your halogen and incandescent lights to LED (light-emitting diodes) lights which are more energy-efficient and last longer. These lights also give off less heat, so your air conditioner won’t have to work as hard to keep you cool.

Install a Programmable Thermostat

Programmable thermostats allow you to maintain the preferred temperature throughout your home at all times. You can program your thermostat according to your activities and schedule. This way, your household will enjoy ideal temperatures whether they are asleep or awake, and you won’t waste energy when you’re away. Programmable thermostats allow you to get the best performance and save energy.

You should also choose energy-efficient appliances for your home. Johnny On The Spot carries cooling systems that bear the ENERGY STAR label. We are happy to provide the systems and services that help you to reduce your carbon footprint. Give us a call at(725) 977-9461 for more information.

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4 Reasons You Need to Call a Service Specialist Now

August 19th, 2018

When you live in Henderson, Nevada, you depend on your air conditioner to keep your family comfortable year-round. Therefore, you need to know the warning signs that your cooling system needs immediate service. From poor airflow to high utility bills, discover how to determine when to call a service specialist.

Insufficient Airflow

If some parts of your home feel overly warm or you don’t feel much air coming from the vents, something’s affecting the flow of air through the system. Replacing the AC filter can help to clear blockages and improve airflow, but that alone won’t always solve the problem. If there’s still a problem, call a service specialist as soon as possible. The experienced team at Johnny On The Spot will check for common issues like thermostat problems, low refrigerant levels, and broken fans.

Unpleasant Odors

Your cooling system should help to improve indoor air quality. If you notice a foul odor, especially when the air conditioner cycles on, check your air filter. The problem could also result from bacteria and debris accumulating within the ductwork or other parts of the system. Give us a call right away to prevent health problems or damage to your air conditioner.

Loud Noises

Most cooling systems make subtle noises when switching on and off. However, louder or more persistent noises can indicate that you need air conditioner maintenance immediately. For example, a rattling noise is often a sign of a broken fan or damage to some other moving part. A buzzing sound can mean that the fan is on its last legs, and popping noises could be pointing to duct problems.

High Utility Bills

Your utility bills may rise and fall based on how you use and take care of your air conditioner. However, dramatic increases can signal a bigger problem. Don’t hesitate to call our team of service experts, so we can determine whether you need a new part, a system calibration, or even a new air conditioner.

Need air conditioner repairs? Call the reliable service specialists at Johnny On The Spot at(725) 977-9461. We look forward to taking care of your air conditioning needs.

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4 Must-Have Features You’ll Find in Today’s Air Conditioners

August 4th, 2018

An energy-efficient air conditioner is essential if you’re to beat the Las Vegas, Nevada, heat. If you haven’t upgraded your cooling system in a decade or more, you’re missing out on many innovative features. From variable-speed technology to smart thermostat compatibility, check out four must-have features you’ll appreciate in today’s air conditioners.

Two-Stage Compressor

When your cooling system switches off, keeping cool isn’t always easy. With a two-stage compressor, however, your air conditioner can switch from high speed to low speed. This capability minimizes temperature swings. At Johnny On The Spot, we carry systems like the two-speed Trane XL18i air conditioner. You can be assured of superior comfort even on summer’s hottest days. This is a must-have feature you’ll love when a heat wave hits our area.

Variable-Speed Technology

Variable-speed technology takes cooling to the next level. This feature allows your cooling system to adjust between several settings. The compressor will change the speed by as little as one-tenth of one percent increments at a time. Trane’s XV20i TruComfort variable speed air conditioner, for example, is an excellent choice. This system keeps you cool no matter how high the outdoor temperature climbs without consuming excess energy.

High SEER Rating

Concerned about decreasing your carbon footprint or reducing your utility bills? You need an air conditioner with a high SEER rating. SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) measures the system’s energy usage over the cooling season. Cooling systems with at least 15 SEER can earn an ENERGY STAR certification. For even higher efficiency, look for an air conditioner like the Trane XV20i which has up to 22 SEER.

Smart Thermostat Compatibility

Your cooling system won’t go very far without an efficient thermostat. We’ll make sure your thermostat and air conditioner are compatible. Smart thermostats can help you manage indoor temperature and humidity, and save energy. Today’s devices with must-have features like Wi-Fi capability and energy reports give your system even more of a high-tech edge.

Ready to upgrade your air conditioner? Call Johnny On The Spot at(725) 977-9461. We have a range of modern, energy-efficient units. We’ll help you to select the right system for your home or business.

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Why a Smart Thermostat Is the Ideal Option for Busy Professionals

July 28th, 2018

You’re busy trying to strike the right balance between work and your personal life. You will, therefore, appreciate any solution that can help you save time and effort. When it comes to keeping your Las Vegas, Nevada, home comfortable, you can rely on a smart thermostat. These devices make home comfort a lot easier and more efficient. Find out why a smart thermostat is the ideal temperature-regulating device for busy professionals.

Automatic Adjustments

A smart thermostat can adapt to weather changes and automatically adjust to maintain comfortable temperature levels. In addition, these high-tech devices can help you manage temperatures to control indoor humidity levels. Regardless of weather conditions, you can use a smart thermostat to program settings according to your schedule. You also save time and minimize energy waste.

Monitor Energy Usage

A smart thermostat’s energy-tracking function is perhaps the most appealing feature for busy professionals. It can monitor your energy usage patterns and provide suggestions on how you can reduce your energy costs. Some smart thermostats have learning capability that enables them to study your usage patterns. The devices then adapt to automatically control the temperature to suit your schedule and preferences. Since you don’t need to program these thermostats manually, they are excellent time-saving devices.

Remote Access

The U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting temperatures based on whether you are awake, sleeping, at home, or away. When you are constantly on the move, you may sometimes forget to adjust the temperature. A smart thermostat enables you to check the temperature in your home from anywhere via your smartphone or tablet. No matter where you are, you can make changes to start cooling your home, so temperatures are ideal upon your return.

A smart thermostat is a worthwhile investment because of the convenience factor. These thermostats make temperature and humidity control easier and help you lower your energy bills. If you wish to replace your old thermostat with a smart thermostat, do not hesitate to call Johnny On The Spot at(725) 977-9461.

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