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August 15, 2017 Go Green

The Difference Between a Hot Light Switch and a Warm Dimmer Switch

Your home is a marvel of independent and interconnected devices. Water flows in and out, managed throughout via a network of pipes,...

August 3, 2017 Air Conditioning

6 Tips for End of Summer AC Maintenance

Most people in Chicago consider air conditioning maintenance a part of their spring or summer routine. The fact is, the spring and early fall are both good times to conduct maintenance on your AC. End of summer AC maintenance, though, can ensure your system is ready to go for any “Indian Summer” days we may yet experience and is good to go in the spring. If there is a problem or potential problem, there is plenty of time to get...

August 3, 2017 Air Conditioning

Is Switching to an Energy Star Air Conditioner Worth It?

You’ve likely heard about Energy Star air conditioners and how they’re more energy efficient. But are they really worth it—in other words,...

August 2, 2017 Air Conditioning

Repair or Replace? Average Life of an Air Conditioning Unit

Some of the most frequently asked questions we get at Althoff Industries are related to the repair, replacement, and lifespan of HVAC equipment. This time of year in Chicago, questions about the average life of an air conditioner unit and whether the repair or replacement of a central air conditioner is better are common. It is not an easy answer because personal situations and equipment quality vary so widely but we can add some perspective. What Is the Average Life...

July 27, 2017 Air Conditioning

7 Signs Your Air Conditioner Needs Repair

It isn’t always obvious that your air conditioner needs repair. The warning signs of an A/C problem are usually there long before the unit breaks down. Your utility bills are going up.You have to set the thermostat lower to stay cool.Your air conditioner runs too long or is short cycling.Your air conditioner has started making strange noises.Certain rooms aren’t cooling properly.The A/C unit is on but not blowing cool air.The A/C doesn’t come on at all. We’ll get into these...

July 19, 2017 Air Conditioning

3 Common Issues that Affect Air Conditioner Performance

As we’ve mentioned in previous articles, there are many factors that will affect air conditioner performance. The most common issues, however, are the three “D’s” of dirt, debris, and dust. A dirty air conditioner, dirty condenser coil or clogged air filter can cause more problems than you can imagine. They also can drain your wallet by making it more expensive to operate your unit, perhaps without your knowledge. This is why it is important to be conscious of the three...

July 13, 2017 Air Conditioning

Why Do Air Conditioners Freeze Up?

It seems to defy logic. The temperatures outdoors are in the 90s or 100s. Yet, your air conditioner isn’t working right because...

July 5, 2017 Air Conditioning

How to Select the Correct SEER Rating for Your Residential Air Conditioner

When faced with replacing the air conditioner of your Chicago area home, you will likely have to make a decision on a SEER rating for your unit. The challenge is, many don’t know what a SEER rating is let alone how it is used in selecting the best system for your home. For those experienced in such matters, you can take a pass on this blog. If, however, you would like to know what a SEER rating is, how it...

July 1, 2017 Home Improvement