Spring AC Maintenance Tips

Spring is finally arriving in Avon! The days are getting longer, the flowers are blooming, and you’re probably already thinking about dusting off the patio furniture or tackling that messy garage.

But there’s one essential part of your Avon, home that also needs some TLC this season—your air conditioning system! Just like you wouldn’t ignore a dust bunny atop your fridge during spring cleaning, your heating and cooling system deserves some attention too.

A few AC maintenance tasks can go a long way in improving efficiency, airflow, and indoor air quality. From replacing air filters to scheduling professional maintenance with Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical, spring cleaning for your cooling system can prevent breakdowns and keep your home comfortable.

Not sure where to start? Read on for essential AC cleaning tips to keep your system running smoothly this spring!

The Importance of Spring AC Maintenance

After working hard all winter to keep your home warm, your air conditioning system deserves a refresh before it starts cooling things down for the summer. Dust, debris, and even pet hair can accumulate in your system, reducing efficiency and potentially leading to unexpected breakdowns just when you need your air conditioning the most.

A well-maintained AC system doesn’t just work better—it also helps you breathe easier. If you’ve ever wondered, “Why is my room so stuffy?” or “What is that smell coming from my air ducts?” the culprit is often a neglected HVAC system.

Dust, mold, and other pollutants can build up in your ductwork and filters, circulating throughout your home and affecting your indoor air quality.

3 Simple Steps to Spring Clean Your HVAC

Now that we’ve established why HVAC maintenance is important, let’s get into what you can do to keep your system running smoothly.

1. Change Your Air Filters

Your HVAC’s air filters trap dust, pollen, and other airborne particles, keeping them from recirculating in your home. However, most filters only last 30 to 90 days before they need to be changed.

Skipping a filter change can reduce airflow and force your system to work harder.

Replacing your air filters on a timely schedule can prevent that “stuffy” feeling in your home and improve overall air quality.

2. Clean Your Vents and Registers

While you have the vacuum out for regular spring cleaning, take a few minutes to vacuum your air vents and registers to remove dust buildup. This helps improve airflow and prevents allergens from getting kicked up into your duct system.

If you notice a persistent odor when your system is running and find yourself asking, “What is that smell coming from my air ducts?” it might be time for a professional duct cleaning. Mold, dust, or even pests can lurk in neglected ductwork, affecting both your air quality and your health.

3. Check and Clean the Outdoor Unit

Your AC’s outdoor unit has likely accumulated leaves, dirt, and debris over the fall and winter months. A clogged condenser coil can cause your system to overheat or run inefficiently, which could lead to the dreaded “Why is my AC blowing warm air?” moment on the first hot day of the season.

Give the unit a good rinse with a hose (after turning off the power) and clear any debris around it to ensure proper airflow.

Schedule a Professional Tune-Up

While regular maintenance helps, a professional AC tune-up is the best way to keep your system running efficiently. A technician will check refrigerant levels and clean critical internal components like the evaporator coil.

Over time, this coil can accumulate dust, pet hair, pollen, and other particles—especially if the air filter is clogged and ineffective. This buildup can lead to a burning smell when you first switch your HVAC system to cooling as the debris heats up.

An HVAC technician can also thoroughly inspect your unit to ensure there are no potential issues that could leave you sweating when summer hits. Plus, regular maintenance can extend the lifespan of your system and even lower your energy bills!

The Indoor Air Quality Factor: Breathing Easier at Home

Good indoor air quality (IAQ) is key to a healthier, more comfortable home. If you notice excessive dust, lingering odors, or allergy symptoms, your air may not be as clean as it should be.

Here are a few ways to improve IAQ:

Breathe Easy With Spring AC Cleaning

Spring cleaning isn’t just about tidying up—it’s about creating a healthier, more comfortable home. By giving your cooling system the attention it needs, you can enjoy better air quality, improved efficiency, and peace of mind knowing your system is ready for summer.

So, grab that vacuum, swap out those filters, and get your AC in top shape—your lungs (and your energy bill) will thank you!

Need help getting your system tuned up in Avon, IN? Contact a trusted HVAC professional from Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical to schedule your spring AC maintenance today! Call 317-471-8700 or request service online.

3 Signs It's Time For a New AC

Should you repair or replace? That’s always the big question when it comes to major home systems like air conditioning (AC).

Repairs are easier on the pocketbook in the short run, but too many of them can add up.

Deciding on the ideal time to replace your air conditioning system in Indianapolis can be a challenge, so here are three areas our Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical professionals suggest you monitor for telltale signs:

  1. Check the age of your air conditioner.
Most air conditioners have an average life span of 10 to 15 years with regular usage. If you run your air conditioning system constantly through unusually hot summers, you may shorten that life span.
On the other hand, lighter usage or cooler weather may mean your unit lasts significantly longer.
Although age alone does not signal an automatic need for a new air conditioner, it should play a factor in your decision. If you notice your current unit is not performing as well and you require more repairs on a system that’s reaching the end of a typical life span, it’s probably a good time to make the investment.
  2. Evaluate the performance and efficiency.
Pay attention to how your air conditioner is performing, as well as to your energy bills. If you have taken care of your air conditioning system with regular maintenance, but begin to notice the unit is not cooling as quickly, as well, or as evenly as it used to, this may be a sign that it’s time to look for a new air conditioner.
In addition, take a close look at the cost of running your air conditioner. New units are always more energy-efficient than older ones, and technological developments often boost the performance of the newest models.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), high-efficiency air conditioners can reduce energy usage by 20 to 50 percent per year.
  3. Gauge your home’s air quality.
A well-functioning air conditioner should not only keep your Indianapolis home cooler, but it should also improve your indoor air quality (IAQ) by reducing the humidity and minimizing allergens such as mold. When the weather is particularly humid in Indiana, your air conditioner will have to work much harder.
Not only will your system need to remove heat, but it will also need to remove moisture from the air.
Over time, this will tax your air conditioning system, making it more difficult to handle humidity. If you notice more moisture in your air, as well as decreased air quality, you may want to invest in a new system.

Call Today for AC Service in Indianapolis

Our licensed HVAC technicians at Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical are well-versed in all makes and models of air conditioners here in Indianapolis, IN We would be happy to help diagnose any problems you are facing, as well as make recommendations for repair or replacement. Call us at 317-471-8700 or request service online today!

What’s That Smell Coming From My AC at Startup?

As the temperatures begin to rise in Carmel many homeowners are firing up their air conditioners for the first time in months. But what if, instead of a refreshing blast of cool air, you’re hit with an unpleasant smell?

If your AC is producing an unusual odor at startup, you’re not alone. This is one of the most common concerns our team at Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical hears every spring as homeowners transition back to cooling mode.

To assuage your concerns, we’ve compiled a list of common smells and their causes.

What’s That Smell Coming From My AC on Startup?

Let’s break down what might be causing these smells and what you can do about them.

1. Musty or Mildew Smell

If your AC smells like a damp basement or old gym socks, you might be dealing with mold or mildew growth inside your system. This often happens when moisture builds up in your air ducts or evaporator coils, creating the perfect environment for microbial growth.

What to Do:

2. Burning Smell

A burning odor when you first turn on your AC could be due to dust accumulation on the heating elements or electrical components. If your system has been sitting unused for months, dust settles on the coils, wires, and motor. The dust burns off when you start it up, causing a brief but noticeable smell.

What to Do:

3. Rotten Egg Smell

A sulfur or rotten egg smell is a major red flag, as it could indicate a natural gas leak near your HVAC system. While air conditioners don’t use natural gas, a nearby furnace, gas line, or stove could be leaking, and your AC could be circulating the odor throughout your home.

What to Do:

4. Chemical or Sweet Smell

A chemical odor, similar to acetone or sweet antifreeze, could indicate a refrigerant leak. Refrigerant is essential for cooling your home, and a leak can not only affect your AC’s performance but also pose health risks if inhaled over time.

What to Do:

5. Dirty Socks or Sewage Smell

If your AC produces a foul, sewage-like smell, you might have a clogged condensate drain or an issue with sewer gas backing up through your home’s plumbing system. Bacteria can grow in stagnant water within the drain line, creating an unpleasant odor.

What to Do:

Preventing Future AC Odors

To avoid these unpleasant smells when starting up your AC each spring, consider the following maintenance steps:

When to Call an HVAC Professional

While some AC odors may be temporary or easy to fix, persistent or strong smells often indicate a more serious issue. If you’re experiencing any of these odors and aren’t sure of the cause, it’s best to call a professional HVAC technician at Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical.  We can diagnose the problem, ensure your system is running safely, and get your AC back to providing fresh, clean air.

Don’t let a smelly AC ruin the start of your cooling season! If you’re in the Carmel area and need expert AC maintenance or repair, contact Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical today to schedule a service appointment. Call 317-471-8700 or request service online.

Ductless Maintenance

Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical extends a warm welcome to all Indiana ductless mini split owners.

Your ductless unit provides so many perks. It’s a one-stop shop for heating and cooling. With multiple modules, you can achieve individual climate control in each room. It’s also incredibly efficient—up to 30 percent less expensive to cool and 60 percent less to heat than traditional systems, according to ENERGY STAR®.

Your mini splits are an important, beneficial part of your Carmel home. That’s why you should take steps to protect your investment, so you enjoy its benefits for years to come.

Fortunately, ductless units are much easier to maintain than an average central air system. That’s because air ducts are prone to dust buildup and leaks. By eliminating them, you have a simpler and more accessible setup. Despite the lighter maintenance needs, be sure you stay on top of them.

How Do They Work?

A ductless system has two main components—the indoor air handler and the outdoor compressor. The air handler is a small, sleek fixture that mounts to your wall or ceiling, ventilating treated air.

In larger homes, you may need two or more air handlers to adequately cool your space. With multiple units, you can individually control the temperature in each zone to create a zone control system.

Home Care for Your Ductless Mini Splits

Whenever you perform home maintenance, be sure to power off the indoor and outdoor components. Let them sit for at least one hour before operating. Additionally, turn off the outside circuit switch. Remembering both of these steps is vital to prevent electrical shock.

  1. Make space around your indoor and outdoor units. You don’t want anything obstructing them. Keep an invisible bubble at least four feet thick around them. Outside, be sure to trim any shrubbery and remove loose twigs that fall on or near your unit.
  2. Clean the air filters. Monthly cleaning is key for the health of your mini split. Clogged filters make for poor indoor air quality (IAQ). They also stifle ventilation, causing your unit to overwork itself. This can shorten its lifespan and lead to breakdowns.
  3. Wipe down the modules. When cleaning your home, dust your indoor units and wipe them down with a wet rag. When performing yard work, spray any dirt or debris off of the outside condenser and coils with your garden hose, then dry. Again, be sure your mini split is turned off when performing these tasks. If you keep up with cleaning (once a week or so), its condition will stay pristine.

Professional Maintenance

Remember to schedule a yearly preventative maintenance visit with a Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical professional. This gives our specialists a chance to check for hidden issues with your ductless mini split before they turn into costly repairs. They can also provide energy savings tips to cut down on your monthly spending. Some of the vital maintenance tasks a professional will perform include:

Your ductless mini split is an important investment. Planned annual maintenance helps protect it, so you can enjoy all of its benefits for years to come.

Speak With a Certified HVAC Expert Today

Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical is proud of our team. The most qualified heating and cooling experts, with the latest and greatest HVAC technology—a perfect combination! For all your AC and heating needs, call our Carmel, IN, offices at 317-471-8700 or request service online.

Going Ductless

Sometimes, a simple, elegant piece of technology can deliver more with less. Ductless mini splits are a triple threat—compact wall units that generate heating, cooling, and ventilation. No ducts are required, and no dull whirring noises—they operate in near silence.

Also, ductless units use minimal energy. Typically, you spend up to 30 percent less to cool and up to 60 percent less to heat when you upgrade from your traditional air system, according to ENERGY STAR®.

Just about every Avon customer who made the switch has something positive to say about these appliances. We’ve performed installations for energy-conscious families and owners of historic homes where ductwork isn’t an option. Some homeowners are just plain fed up with energy loss and repair costs from their leaky ducts.

No matter what piqued your curiosity, the team at Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical is glad you’re here. Mini splits are an excellent option to explore if you want an alternative to traditional air conditioners, furnaces, or heat pumps. Going ductless is a smart investment that benefits your home long-term, potentially for decades.

No Ducts? How Does It Work?

Ductless units pack powerful heating and cooling technology into a small setup. They rely on two central modules—the evaporator (indoors) and the compressor (outdoors). You control the temperature using a remote controller, or on your mobile device when coupled with a smart thermostat.

The evaporator resembles a modern rectangular light fixture. It mounts easily to your wall or ceiling. The evaporator harvests heat and humidity from your home, sending it outside. Then, using slotted vents, the evaporator evenly distributes the treated air through the room it’s installed in.

A small refrigerant line connects it to the outdoor compressor, a small box with a fan. On hot days, the compressor releases discarded heat that the evaporator collects. On cool days, the process works in reverse, expelling concentrated heat into your home, like a heat pump.

What Are the Benefits of Going Ductless?

Here are just a few advantages:

1. Energy Savings

Are you looking to cut down on your electricity usage? With up to 30 percent less energy use on cooling and 60 percent less on heating, it’s one of the most cost-effective products on the market. Lower utility bills are a major plus. Additionally, you’ll reduce your carbon footprint, helping to preserve Indiana’s clean air for the next generation.

2. Easy to Maintain

A simplified setup means fewer parts to keep track of. They are also much easier to access, making cleaning and maintenance a breeze. To top it off, removing ducts from the equation eliminates the need for duct cleaning and inspections.

3. Less Noise Pollution

Most furnaces and AC units produce a humming or rattling, with a distinctive “shudder” at the end of each cycle. These noisy interruptions can break your concentration as you work or keep you awake while you lay in bed. With just a fan and an evaporator, ductless units make your home a much quieter place.

4. Versatility

With all-in-one heating and cooling, you have perfect temperature control at your fingertips. You also have less machinery to keep track of.

5. Individualized Temperature Control

Do you live in a family-sized home? Install multiple modules, and each family member can have it their way—no more arguing over the thermostat. You can blast cool air during your yoga session without giving anyone else a case of shivers. You can also save energy by switching off the air in empty rooms.

Call Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical To Make Your Ductless Dream a Reality!

Want to learn more about innovative heating and cooling solutions for your Avon, IN home? Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical’s team of certified HVAC experts is eager to assist. We install the only highest quality equipment and perform stellar maintenance and repairs. Call us at 317-471-8700 or request service online.

5 Common AC Problems

When your air conditioner (AC) is running at peak efficiency, you win. Below are 5 common AC problems.

Not only will your electric bills in Indiana be cheaper––your AC system will last longer. Plus, your equipment will be operating at its best, so you will experience maximum comfort.

The first step to optimizing efficiency is remembering to change your system’s air filter once every three months. This simple maintenance task ensures a balanced airflow, so your AC doesn’t overwork itself.

When you change out a dirty filter for a clean one, your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) equipment use up to 15 percent less energy monthly, according to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). Plus, it’s able to properly catch dust and debris, boosting your indoor air quality (IAQ).

Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical is always eager to educate our CITY area customers on heating and cooling home care. Whether you have an AC, furnace, heat pump, or ductless mini split, we want you to get the most out of your investment.

Here are five reasons your AC could be running inefficiently:

1. Infrequent Maintenance

In addition to changing your filter, it’s important to have an HVAC professional perform a seasonal maintenance inspection, ideally in the spring. Your professional will be able to pinpoint and fix problems that are causing your AC to run less efficiently. Additionally, this will potentially save you from future repair costs. Finally, it will increase the lifespan of your equipment.

2. Poor Insulation

A well-insulated house keeps treated air in longer. That means fewer cycles, which creates less work for your AC system and uses less energy. Think you may need more insulation? You can schedule an energy audit with your Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical professional. Our team of Indianapolis HVAC experts can use thermal imaging to quickly find “hot spots” where the air is escaping, among other areas where efficiency is lacking.

3. Window Losses

Windows can create a few efficiency problems. Large windows can create “heat gain” by letting in lots of sunlight. Windows can also let in outside air through spaces in the panes. You can combat these issues in a few ways. Always be sure to close your windows when operating your AC. Additionally, you can eliminate leaks by using insulated curtains, applying a plastic film, or closing them up with caulk or sealing tape.

4. Leaky Ducts

Leaky air ducts are a common problem that should not go unnoticed. Conditioned air escaping from your ductwork will drive up your utility bills and make your home less comfortable due to poor ventilation. During an energy audit, your HVAC professional can accurately track down and patch duct leaks.

5. Frequent Oven Use

Have you ever noticed your kitchen feels warmer when you make a batch of cookies? That’s because it is. Cooking and baking raise the temperature of your kitchen, causing your AC to work harder. Fortunately, summertime here in Indiana is grilling season. Consider cooking outdoors more frequently. Your AC will thank you.

Call Today for Optimal HVAC Care

Located in Indianapolis, IN, Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical provides quality HVAC installations, repairs, and maintenance. Call today at 317-471-8700 or request service online.

AC Maintenance Checklist

Can you imagine a scorching hot day here in Indianapolis without air conditioning? During those dog days of summer, your air conditioning system can be your very best friend.  Below is an AC maintenance checklist.

Be sure you take the time to perform basic maintenance regularly as well as invest in a professional AC tune-up at least once a year. According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), good maintenance can save money and reduce your energy usage

Here’s a comprehensive air conditioning maintenance checklist, courtesy of our professionals at Godby Heating Plumbing Electical, to help keep your system in excellent working order.

Check Air Circulation

Perhaps the most important thing to be sure you have around your air conditioner is plenty of space for good air circulation. Most air conditioners have a unit that sits outside your home.

It’s a good idea to inspect this area to be sure leaves, sticks, and other yard debris are cleared every spring. Once the summer gets into full swing, don’t forget to mow and use a weed whacker around your unit as well.

Change Filters

Being sure you regularly change your air filters accomplishes the same goal of ensuring good airflow. If you have a clogged filter, it can take your air conditioning system more effort to move the air throughout the unit, wearing down parts prematurely.

Replacing a clogged filter with a clean one can lower your AC’s energy consumption by up to 15 percent. Pay attention to the recommended life of your filters and change them on time.

Uses Your Senses

General awareness of how your air conditioning system should sound and look can be a simple thing for you to have. If you notice something doesn’t look quite right or your air conditioner is suddenly making unusual sounds or emitting strange odors, it can signal a need for air conditioning repair or maintenance.

Check Coolant Levels

Although the first three items on the checklist are easy for just about any Indiana homeowner to do, the remainder of these items may take a bit more experience. If you are uncomfortable with any of these additional maintenance tasks, be sure to call in one of our Godby Heating Plumbing Electical professionals to help.

The refrigerant or coolant must be at a specific level and pressure to keep your air conditioning system running efficiently. You’ll want to periodically check this level, and if your coolant is low, you’ll need to call in one of our professionals to refill your system.

In addition, leaking coolant can be a significant problem for the environment, so address any noticeable leaks immediately.

Look for Ice Buildup

If you notice your air conditioning evaporator coil has ice building up on it, you probably have an airflow problem. Double check to be sure your filter and air ducts are clean.

If you have a great deal of ice, you may need to shut off your system, defrost all of it, ensure air circulation is fine, and then turn it back on. If the problem continues, it’s a good idea to call one of our professionals to conduct an inspection.

Inspect Connections

Be sure all the electrical connections as well as ductwork and other tubing within the system look tight and secure. Again, this may take experience to understand what a solid system should look like, and you may want to rely on a professional inspection once a year.

Most heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) companies will provide a comprehensive service of cleaning and inspection for a reasonable fee. Relying on certified, trained technicians can be an excellent investment in your air conditioning system. Call our Godby Heating Plumbing Electical team with any questions you may have.

Check Thermostat

If your thermostat is not working properly, it will not be sending the correct information to your air conditioner.

As a result, your system can’t work properly. In addition, if a broken thermostat causes your system to cycle on and off too frequently, it can cause longer-term damage to your entire air conditioning system.

Contact Us for All Your Air Conditioning Needs

If it’s been a while since you’ve had your air conditioning system inspected, call Godby Heating Plumbing Electical in Indianapolis, IN. Our trained experts would be happy to come out and provide a thorough cleaning and inspection to help keep your air conditioner running efficiently throughout the summer. Call us at 317-471-8700 or request service online today.

5 Common AC Problems

When your air conditioner (AC) is running at peak efficiency, you win.

Not only will your electric bills in Indiana be cheaper––your AC system will last longer. Plus, your equipment will be operating at its best, so you will experience maximum comfort.

The first step to optimizing efficiency is remembering to change your system’s air filter once every three months. This simple maintenance task ensures a balanced airflow, so your AC doesn’t overwork itself.

When you change out a dirty filter for a clean one, your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) equipment use up to 15 percent less energy monthly, according to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). Plus, it’s able to properly catch dust and debris, boosting your indoor air quality (IAQ).

Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical is always eager to educate our Carmel area customers on heating and cooling home care. Whether you have an AC, furnace, heat pump, or ductless mini split, we want you to get the most out of your investment.

Here are five reasons your AC could be running inefficiently:

1. Infrequent Maintenance

In addition to changing your filter, it’s important to have an HVAC professional perform a seasonal maintenance inspection, ideally in the spring. Your professional will be able to pinpoint and fix problems that are causing your AC to run less efficiently. Additionally, this will potentially save you from future repair costs. Finally, it will increase the lifespan of your equipment.

2. Poor Insulation

A well-insulated house keeps treated air in longer. That means fewer cycles, which creates less work for your AC system and uses less energy. Think you may need more insulation? You can schedule an energy audit with your Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical professional. Our team of Carmel HVAC experts can use thermal imaging to quickly find “hot spots” where the air is escaping, among other areas where efficiency is lacking.

3. Window Losses

Windows can create a few efficiency problems. Large windows can create “heat gain” by letting in lots of sunlight. Windows can also let in outside air through spaces in the panes. You can combat these issues in a few ways. Always be sure to close your windows when operating your AC. Additionally, you can eliminate leaks by using insulated curtains, applying a plastic film, or closing them up with caulk or sealing tape.

4. Leaky Ducts

Leaky air ducts are a common problem that should not go unnoticed. Conditioned air escaping from your ductwork will drive up your utility bills and make your home less comfortable due to poor ventilation. During an energy audit, your HVAC professional can accurately track down and patch duct leaks.

5. Frequent Oven Use

Have you ever noticed your kitchen feels warmer when you make a batch of cookies? That’s because it is. Cooking and baking raise the temperature of your kitchen, causing your AC to work harder. Fortunately, summertime here in Indiana is grilling season. Consider cooking outdoors more frequently. Your AC will thank you.

Call Today for Optimal HVAC Care

Located in Carmel, Indiana, Godby Heating, Plumbing, and Electrical provides quality HVAC installations, repairs, and maintenance. Call today at 317-471-8700 or request service online.

Video - Is your AC making scary noises?

Is your AC making scary noises? Call us today! We can help!

Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical

317-471-8700

Video - Energy Saving Tip 3

Close your blinds on sun-facing windows during the day to keep the sun from heating up your home and causing your AC to use more energy.

Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical

317-471-8700