Category: Uncategorized

While Ruston, LA, is not typically associated with extreme winter weather, occasional snowstorms can still surprise residents. Preparing your home for winter storms is crucial to ensure the safety and comfort of your family.

Let’s explore some key tips to safeguard your home’s HVAC system, electrical components, and highlight the importance of having a generator to weather the challenges of a winter storm.

HVAC System Preparations

• Inspect and Insulate:
  Before winter arrives, have your HVAC system inspected by a professional. Ensure that it is in good working condition and well-insulated to retain heat effectively. Consider adding insulation to windows and doors to minimize heat loss.
• Seal Leaks:
  Seal any gaps or leaks in your home’s windows, doors, and ductwork. This not only helps in retaining heat but also prevents cold air from infiltrating your living spaces.
• Programmable Thermostat:
  Invest in a programmable thermostat to regulate your home’s temperature efficiently. Program it to lower the temperature when you’re away and raise it when you return, optimizing energy usage and keeping your home comfortable.

Electrical System Safety

• Check for Leaks:
  Inspect your home for potential drafts and seal any gaps. This not only helps conserve energy but also protects your electrical components from exposure to harsh winter conditions.
• Install Surge Protectors:
  Winter storms can bring power fluctuations. Install surge protectors to safeguard sensitive electronics and appliances from damage caused by power surges.
• Emergency Lighting:
  Equip your home with emergency lighting, such as battery-powered or generator-supported lights. Winter storms can lead to power outages, and having alternative lighting sources enhances safety.

Generator Tips

• Choose the Right Generator:
  Invest in a generator suitable for your home’s power needs. Standby options like a Generac whole-home generator start automatically the moment the power goes out. Consider essential appliances like heating systems, refrigerators, and medical equipment when selecting the appropriate size.
• Fuel and Maintenance:
  Ensure your generator is well-maintained and fueled. Regularly check the oil levels, perform maintenance tasks, and store an adequate supply of fuel in a safe location.
• Professional Installation:
  Have your generator professionally installed to guarantee optimal performance and safety. Proper installation ensures that your generator operates seamlessly during a power outage.

Preparing your home for a winter storm in Ruston, LA, demands a proactive approach to HVAC, electrical, and generator readiness. By following these tips, you can enhance your home’s resilience, keep your family warm and safe, and minimize disruptions during winter storms. Stay prepared, stay warm, and face the winter with confidence!

The Benefits of Installing a Humidifier for the Winter Months

Louisiana is known for being a humid place, but as winter rolls in, even such a muggy climate can become incredibly dry. As temperatures drop, humidity levels drop since colder air simply can’t hold as much water vapor as warmer air. Then, as the home’s HVAC system heats the already-dry air, the relative humidity is driven even lower inside the home. 

Just as excessively high humidity can cause all kinds of air quality issues in the summer, excessively low humidity can cause its share of problems in the winter, including dry, itchy skin, respiratory issues, and wilted houseplants. But with the help of a humidifier, homeowners can get their home’s humidity back to a healthier, more comfortable level. Read on to discover the benefits of a whole-home humidifier on every aspect of a household during the cold winter months!

Respiratory Health Benefits

One of the biggest benefits of a humidifier is that it can help maintain good respiratory health. Breathing dry air over long periods can dry out the throat, nose, lungs, and sinus passages. This is why many people get nosebleeds, sinus infections, or sore throats during the winter. Those with asthma, allergies, or other respiratory conditions often experience worsened symptoms for the same reasons. 

To make matters worse, the body relies on mucus to trap airborne pathogens before they can enter the lungs, so when the mucous membranes are dried out, the body’s immune defenses aren’t as effective. This is part of why cold, flu, and other respiratory illnesses are more prevalent in winter.

A humidifier, which adds moisture to the air by rapidly evaporating water, can keep the respiratory system from becoming parched, combat dehydration, and help the body’s immune system function normally to fight germs and viruses.

Benefits for Hair and Skin Health

One consequence of cold, dry air that almost everyone is familiar with is dry skin and hair. With so little humidity, the skin’s natural barriers tend to break down, and much of the body’s moisture is lost to evaporation. This can leave skin dry, itchy, and flaky, even if it may crack and bleed – particularly for those with dry skin. Of course, dry skin means a dry scalp, which can leave hair deprived of vital moisture and nutrients. This is why many people struggle with dry, brittle hair or an itchy, flaky scalp during the winter.

Applying moisturizers can help, but it can only go so far if the air in the home remains overly dry. By keeping the indoor humidity levels in a healthier range with a whole-house humidifier, homeowners can help their skin and hair retain more moisture so they can enjoy healthy, smooth, comfortable, and good-looking skin and hair all winter long.

Protects and Nourishes Houseplants

Just as dry air can have all sorts of negative consequences for the human body, it can also wreak havoc on plants and vegetation. Some houseplants are more resilient than others, but all plants require moisture and sunlight to produce the glucose they need to survive and grow. If the home’s air is very dry, indoor plants will lose much moisture, stunting their growth, causing them to wilt, and eventually killing them.

With a home humidifier keeping the humidity levels up, the houseplants will be able to draw moisture from the air to be used in photosynthesis to continue thriving. And since houseplants can provide a much-needed splash of color and mood boost during the gray winter months, this alone can be reason enough to look into humidifier installation.

While portable humidifiers are effective at raising the humidity level in a single room, the best humidifier benefits come from whole-home models. These are typically installed downstream of the HVAC system’s air return to distribute water vapor through the home’s air ducts. This allows homeowners to keep every room in the house at an ideal humidity level (30-50% relative humidity) for a healthier, more comfortable home!

About Albritton Service Co

Since its founding in 1982, the family-owned and operated Albritton Service Co has consistently been one of Ruston’s most highly-rated HVAC companies. Their commitment to outstanding workmanship and customer satisfaction has earned them numerous awards, including the prestigious Carrier President’s Award and the “Reader’s Choice” award from the Ruston Daily Leader. They are proud to offer competitive up-front pricing, flexible financing, 24/7 emergency service, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every job – so call them today for whole-house humidifier installation in Ruston, LA!

[press_release_images][/press_release_images]

[press_release_distributions id=”216226″][/press_release_distributions]

Regular AC Maintenance = Saving Money 

As a good rule of thumb, homeowners could consult trained HVAC specialists at least once a year. That way, these professionals can conduct regular maintenance visits and get to the root of any evolving problems. However, some homeowners forgo these checkups, concerned about spending money. Well, here’s some news: in the long run, maintenance visits save money on unexpected energy bills. 

Here are some basic tips that can help homeowners save money on their monthly energy bills.

Get a Smart Thermostat 

Smart thermostats offer homeowners control over their HVAC systems in ways never thought possible. These devices: 

• Connect to smartphone devices. Here, homeowners get remote control over their HVAC systems, allowing them to adjust the temperature at work or school. 
• Predict energy bills. No more surprises with a smart home thermostat! These devices predict how much money homeowners spend each month, giving them insight into their energy consumption habits. 
• Some offer “cooling” zones. Some thermostats even let homeowners change the temperature between rooms. 

What’s more, most programmable thermostats don’t need any pre-existing wiring. They usually run on batteries and snap onto the wall. 

Change the Air Filter Trimonthly 

Energy is one of the nation’s leading authorities on energy-efficient habits. The organization suggests that, at minimum, a homeowner should change their HVAC’s air filter once every three months. This allows the HVAC system to filter contaminants from the air and promote good indoor air quality. 

Sometimes, however, the air filter needs changing more often. One may consider air filter replacement if they notice the following: 

• The AC system quickly turns on and off. This is known as “short cycling.”
• The home has dogs or cats that shed. 
• The AC system is constantly on. 
• There are burning smells coming from the AC system. 
• The AC system never turns on.

Here’s a fun fact: not all air filters are created equal. Some do offer better performance than others. For instance, high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters remove up to 99.9 percent of all airborne contaminants. 

Here’s another fun fact: size matters regarding air filters. A small air filter will get clogged within a matter of days, and an air filter that’s too big won’t filter out everything. 

Schedule an AC Inspection 

A heating maintenance company can evaluate the AC system and explain what measures can promote optimal performance. During their inspection, a professional will: 

• Leaks for any leaks in the air ducts
• Recommend appliance replacement when necessary 
• Change a dirty air filter 
• Ensure the thermostat’s sensors work 
• Clean the evaporator and condenser coils 
• Identify any underlying problems 

A professional can also alert homeowners to any mold or mildew growth. These substances can arise when there’s excessive humidity inside the home or a leak. They’re also more than inconvenient. They can also affect homeowners’ health, leading to respiratory problems. 

About Albritton Service Co

Albritton Service Co has over 30 years of experience serving their friends and neighbors in Ruston, LA. Regarding AC systems, these professionals offer every service under the sun, including same-day service and online scheduling. Call today for HVAC service!

[press_release_images][/press_release_images]

[press_release_distributions id=”211864″][/press_release_distributions]

Tips to Help Spot and Stop Electrical Problems 

Halloween is the fastest-growing holiday for decorations. Traditionally, Christmas has been the most popular holiday for decking the halls. Still, every year, more and more people are adding lights and outdoor electronics to ring in the fall with Halloween decorations. 

For those that are new to outdoor decorations, or decorating in general. Few rules should be followed to ensure the Halloween season doesn’t turn out too spooky. Electrical problems can present serious threats during any season celebrated with decorations, so now is the time to get ready. Here are some professional tips to help ensure that Halloween stays safe and fun. 

Know the Basics of Electricity 

The electricity in a home is reliable and safe as long as no problems are afoot. Luckily, decorating for the holidays allows homeowners to look for problems in their electrical system and practice good habits that will protect the electrical system in a home for years to come.

When hanging Halloween decorations, always follow rules like: 

• Checking extension cords for damage before use
• Discarding damaged extension cords and lighting strands
• Inspect electronics for proper operation
• Never use multiple cords strung together
• Don’t run outdoor decorations with indoor outlets
• Test GFCI outlets before relying on them for power 
• Hang lighting with plastic connectors instead of nails or staples 

By following this advice, owners can ensure they minimize the risk of electric shocks and fires during the holidays. Follow these rules and leave the tricks for the trick-or-treaters. 

Stop Overloading Outlets 

One of the biggest dangers during the holidays is overloading circuits around the home. This problem has become less prevalent with the advent of LED lighting that uses less power, but this can also lull owners into a false sense of safety and allow them to overload circuits and outlets. 

Every outlet in the home is designed to run a limited number of decorations. In the perfect world, overloaded outlets will trip their circuit breaker. However, if the breaker is damaged, then electrical fires may result. Always split electrical loads to multiple outlets and circuits when in doubt to avoid problems. 

Notice the Signs That Electrical Repairs are Needed 

The electrical system in a home can be neglected for long periods. Most people don’t make a point to inspect every switch and outlet in their home unless there is a problem. In reality, that isn’t necessary. However, learning the signs that electrical problems are about to play tricks during Halloween is easy. For owners that will be decorating and making preparations around the home, simply look out for signs like: 

• Dimming or flickering lights
• Loose outlets
• Black scorch marks or soot around outlets
• Frequently tripping breakers or blowing fuses
• Electrical smells
• Browned out electronics

These signs are all indicators that something is wrong. Neglecting to react to these signs could result in anything from a loss of electrical power on a circuit to an electrical fire. Don’t take chances. Always call a professional at the first sign of trouble. 

About Albritton Service Co

Albritton Service Co has over 40 years of experience protecting homes from electrical problems. This family business is licensed and insured to provide the highest service levels. Call today for guaranteed electrical service in Ruston, LA. 

[press_release_images][/press_release_images]

[press_release_distributions id=”207649″][/press_release_distributions]

Everything Homeowners Need to Know About Air Filters

Any HVAC professional will say that the air filter is one of the most important components of an HVAC system. And yet, many homeowners underestimate the role that air filters play in the performance, efficiency, and health of their AC or heater – not to mention the health of everyone in the household.

So, it pays to learn more about air filters and their importance for any homeowners who want to keep their air conditioners and heaters running strong and enjoy a healthier, more comfortable home. To help clear the air (no pun intended), this article will answer some questions and dispel a few common myths about AC air filters!

What Does an Air Filter Do, Exactly?

An air filter removes dust, dander, debris, and other contaminants from the indoor air as it is pulled into the HVAC system’s main intake or return vent. As air moves through the filter, airborne pollutants get trapped in the filter media so they can’t interfere with the HVAC unit’s internal components. The filter media is typically made from woven fiberglass, foam, or pleated paper or cloth.

Different types of filters are designed for different applications and types of HVAC systems – the thicker the filter, the wider range of pollutants it can capture, but the stronger the unit needs to be to pull air through it. Some are rated to capture tiny particles such as smoke, mold spores, and even viruses – but these are typically found in hospitals and industrial settings. The AC air filters used in most homes are designed to capture only larger pollutants like hair, pet dander, pollen, and dust.

How Often Should AC Air Filters Be Replaced?

In general, air filters should be replaced every three months – although more frequent air filter replacements may be a good idea if anyone in the home has severe allergies, asthma, or if multiple indoor pets are contributing to the overall level of dander, dirt, and hair in the home.

Some homes may have electrostatic or reusable air filters inside the AC or heater. These must also be cleaned regularly to keep the unit and the indoor air clean. This can be done by a professional as part of routine HVAC service. Still, homeowners may be able to do it themselves between professional maintenance visits – as long as they follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid damaging the filters.

Why Is It Important to Replace Air Filters On Time?

Regular AC filter replacement is critical for several reasons. As airborne pollutants accumulate in the filter media, it will become harder for the HVAC system’s blower to pull air into the system for cooling or heating. The unit will then have to work harder to meet the demands of the thermostat, putting undue strain on the blower motor and other components. 

This will also increase heating and cooling costs as the unit consumes more energy to heat or cool the home effectively. At the same time, the lack of proper airflow caused by a dirty air filter will leave more contaminants inside the house, leading to poor indoor air quality. The benefits of replacing air filters on time include the following:

• Improving energy efficiency and reducing heating and cooling costs
• Improving system performance for a more comfortable home
• Improving indoor air quality
• Extending the life of the unit by reducing wear & tear

Considering all of the above, it should come as no surprise that HVAC technicians check the air filters’ state before anything else when diagnosing problems. To keep their HVAC systems operating at peak efficiency and enjoy a healthier, more comfortable home all year round, homeowners can take the simple and easy action of replacing their air filters on time!

About Albritton Service Co

The award-winning Albritton Service Co has been Ruston’s go-to resource for all things HVAC and electrical since 1982. They offer 24/7 emergency service, fast turnarounds, personalized solutions, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every job. Their friendly and punctual technicians are all licensed, insured, background-checked, and drug-tested, so homeowners know they’re in good hands when they call Albritton for HVAC maintenance and air filter replacement in Ruston, LA!

[press_release_images][/press_release_images]

[press_release_distributions id=”203088″][/press_release_distributions]

Measures to Keep Homes and Families Safe 

The National Safety Council has some unsettling news for homeowners. In a recent year, more than 150,000 people suffered injuries from in-home accidents. These included fires, electrocutions, and gas inhalation. While this may seem startling, here’s some good news: Many in-home injuries are preventable. Here, Ruston residents can learn how to get the most out of National Wellness Month. 

Installing a Smoke Detector 

According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, housefires cause close to 2,000 fatalities each year. This makes it crucial for homeowners to install smoke alarms. Here are some tips for purchasing and installing one of these life-saving devices: 

• Have a smoke detector on every level of the home. There’s no such thing as having too many smoke detectors. A homeowner wants to cover all of their bases. 
• Test the device every month. Even if the smoke detector never goes off, testing the batteries is a good idea. 
• Avoid installing an ionization smoke alarm in the kitchen. These are very sensitive devices that will go off constantly when someone cooks––even if there isn’t any smoke. Homeowners should save themselves the trouble in the kitchen and install photoelectric units. 

Installing a smoke detector is just one way to keep a home’s residents safe from fires. Homeowners should also have a fire escape route and practice it periodically. 

Getting a Carbon Monoxide Detector 

Carbon monoxide detectors are critical in keeping homeowners and their loved ones safe. That’s because carbon monoxide is a toxic gas that binds to blood cells and limits how much oxygen flows throughout the body. With prolonged exposure, carbon monoxide poisoning can lead to difficulty breathing, dizziness, and even death. 

Per CNET, when installing a carbon monoxide detector, one should: 

• Place them in sleeping areas. That way, if the carbon monoxide detector goes off in the middle of the night, it’ll wake the household. 
• Place the device five feet from the floor. One could also place the detector on the ceiling, six inches from the wall. 
• Check the battery once a year. A carbon monoxide detector isn’t good if it doesn’t have a power source. Some models are hardware into a home’s electrical grid, so they never lose power (except when the home does). 

Scheduling an Electrical Safety Inspection 

Having a licensed and insured electrician inspect the home’s grid at least once a year is a good idea. They can check for any electrical hazards that could endanger homeowners’ health, such as: 

• Overloaded circuits
• Frayed wires 
• Arc flashes and bursts 
• Faulty appliances 
• Blown fuses
• Circuit panels that need replacing 
• Gas leaks 
• Exposed heating elements 
• Overheated appliances 

An electrician does more than check for problems and fix them. They can also advise homeowners on day-to-day measures to reduce the likelihood of electrocutions, electrical fires, and other avoidable hazards. 

About Albritton Service Co

The HVAC specialists at Albritton Service Co have one mission: to provide quality HVAC repairs to those living in and around Ruston, LA. They offer electrical inspections, and appliance repair, and help install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. These professionals deliver around-the-clock service with a smile. One can call today to learn more. 

[press_release_images][/press_release_images]

[press_release_distributions id=”199251″][/press_release_distributions]

What Is Humidity – And Why Should It Worry Homeowners?

Summer is in full swing, and humidity levels are at their highest for Louisiana residents. This is because air can hold more water vapor in warmer temperatures than in colder temperatures. “Relative humidity” refers to the amount of water vapor in the air at a given temperature relative to how much it can hold. 

So why does this matter to homeowners? Most people keep their homes quite a bit cooler in the summer than outside, and since cool air can’t hold as much water vapor, all that moisture in the air tends to condense inside the home. This can turn the home into a moist environment, leading to mold growth, damage to the home and furniture, and uncomfortable living space. The home’s air conditioner can remove some water vapor while it cools the air, but this isn’t always enough – which is where dehumidifiers come in.

How Does a Dehumidifier Work?

Simply put, a dehumidifier removes water vapor to reduce indoor humidity levels. It does this by pulling in air and blowing it through an array of metal coils filled with refrigerant, which keeps them cold. The air around the coils will cool, causing the water vapor to condense. The condensation will collect on the coils (like on a cold soda can on a hot day), then drip into a reservoir or drain pan below.

With some dehumidifiers – portable models in particular – the unit will automatically shut off when the water in the reservoir reaches a certain point, signaling that it’s time to manually empty the reservoir. Whole-house dehumidifiers, typically installed more permanently and connected to the home’s existing ductwork, have a condensate drain line discharging the water outside or in a drain.

Signs a Dehumidifier Is Needed

Many home thermostats display indoor humidity as a percentage and the temperature. The ideal range for indoor humidity is around 30-50%, so if the thermostat is much higher than that, even with the air conditioner running around the clock, it’s probably time to get a dehumidifier. For those whose thermostats don’t have this function, there are a few other signs of high humidity in the home:

• The home feels muggy or stuffy
• Upholstery or carpet feels damp
• The musty or mildew smell inside the home
• Condensation on windows or air vents
• Water stains or discoloration on walls
• Mold growth (often appears first in bathrooms and other areas that tend to be more humid in general)
• Crackers, chips, and cereal go stale or lose their crunch quickly
• Bread and fruit spoil faster at room temperature

Advantages of Having a Dehumidifier

There are numerous benefits of having a dehumidifier in the home. Perhaps most importantly, it improves indoor air quality and protects the family’s health. This is partly because high humidity can lead to stuffy sinuses and aggravate respiratory issues and partly because it creates a moisture-rich environment that can foster mold growth and bacteria. Keeping the humidity at healthy levels will help prevent these issues.

But a dehumidifier can also help protect furniture and the home from moisture damage (humidity can warp wood and drywall, cause wallpaper to peel or bubble, and cause fabrics to deteriorate faster). It can also discourage insect infestation (many pests thrive in humid environments), make the home more comfortable overall, and even increase its property value by keeping the place in great shape.

And since summertime in Louisiana is about as muggy as it gets anywhere in the world, there’s no better time to get a dehumidifier. Of course, every home is different, so homeowners should consult their trusted HVAC contractor to determine whether a portable or whole-home dehumidifier is right for them!

About Albritton Service Co

The award-winning Albritton Service Co has proudly handled Ruston’s HVAC, indoor air quality, and electrical needs since 1982. Their licensed, insured, drug-tested, and background-checked technicians are available 24/7 for emergency service when it’s needed most. They always provide up-front pricing and personalized solutions to fit any budget and guarantee 100% satisfaction on every job – so don’t hesitate to ask Albritton about dehumidifiers in Ruston, LA, today!

[press_release_images][/press_release_images]

[press_release_distributions id=”194498″][/press_release_distributions]

Get the Backyard Ready for Summer Guests 

One of the best summer pastimes is an evening party in the backyard. Such gatherings often center around the grill, offering families and neighborhoods time to socialize. During the summer, an outdoor party is the best way to slow down and enjoy an easier pace. Why not invest in a space that can help accommodate these goals? 

In the backyard, there are plenty of opportunities to set the mood. Here are experts’ suggestions to help homeowners design the safest and most enjoyable outdoor space. With these upgrades, every homeowner can have the perfect space to entertain. 

Add Exterior Lighting for Safety and Ambiance 

The biggest aspect of outdoor parties in the summer is safety. What can ruin a party faster than someone tripping and falling? That’s why the experts recommend certain types of lighting first for those who wish to entertain outdoors. To highlight a path, start by exploring exterior lighting options like step or landscape lighting. Don’t forget to ensure adequate lighting around doors that access the home. 

Not all lighting has to be utilitarian. One of the best things a homeowner can do is engineer a safe but welcoming space. To best use ambient lighting, focus on overhead lighting over meeting areas and adequate exterior lighting around spaces where activities will occur. 

Install a Generator 

Along with summer parties come summer storms. In this region, summer power outages are more common than any other time of the year, and a loss in power can spell doom for a fun time in the backyard. To overcome the struggles that nature may hurl, consider installing a generator. 

A generator from a qualified professional can be installed to match any budget. Small generators can be installed to keep lighting and entertainment systems operating during brief outages, while larger generators can be sized to handle the entire home. With professional installation, homeowners can enjoy seamless transitions from the grid to generator power and ensure that summers stay safe and fun. 

Use Professional Help to Install Hot Tubs and Pools 

Electricity and water don’t mix, so homeowners should always use professionals to help them install pools and hot tubs in outdoor spaces. Why should owners always hire professionals for electrical work? First, professionals are trained in the latest electrical codes and regulations. This ensures that they can install any appliance with the maximum degree of safety while also keeping warranties intact. 

Secondly, professional electricians can protect expensive outdoor equipment by ensuring everything is hooked up properly. Instead of taking the risk of buying a pool or hot tub and not being sure a home has adequate infrastructure to support it, get the help of an electrician from the beginning to ensure the project goes smoothly. With the addition of hot tubs and pools to outdoor spaces, a home can be the envy of everyone on the block. 

About Albritton Service Co

Albritton Service Co is the local HVAC and electrical expert. Their licensed and insured technicians can install generators and exterior lighting to fit any design scheme. Call today for residential or commercial electrical service in Ruston, LA. 

[press_release_images][/press_release_images]

[press_release_distributions id=”190158″][/press_release_distributions]

Keep Up The Energy Efficiency of the Home’s Air Conditioning Unit With AC Coil Cleaning

Every adult is aware that machines need maintenance. Cars need to change their oil and tires to function properly and last as long as they should. HVAC units are just the same. They need certain cleaning and maintenance procedures done regularly. The AC coils are an essential part of the air conditioning unit, and keeping them clean is vital to maintaining comfortable temperatures in the home. There are two types of coils inside the typical HVAC system: the evaporator and the condenser coils. Coil cleaning is necessary for both types to have the most efficient system.

What Are Evaporator Coils?

Evaporator coils are the coils that are inside the house near the intake vent. These are also called cooling coils because they are the ones that pull heat from the air to provide the blower with cooler, humidity-controlled air to send through the air ducts. Because they interact with the air indoors, the evaporator coils often become dirty due to the:

• House dust
• Human dander
• Pet dander
• Dirt
• Lint
• VOCs

Keeping the air filters clean by changing them every 6 months can help the coils stay cleaner longer. 

What Are Condenser Coils?

Condenser coils are the copper tubes that run around the exterior HVAC unit. These release the collected heat through the use of the compressor. It is easy to understand this because if someone has ever stood next to an outdoor AC unit, they could probably feel the heat. Storms blowing dirt, leaves, pollen, and other detritus are primarily responsible for dirty condenser coils. When they are dirty, they must work much harder to release the heat, affecting the whole system’s efficiency.

The Benefits of Coil Maintenance

Because getting to the coils and fins is a somewhat difficult process, HVAC professionals should be the ones handling this particular maintenance. There are a couple of methods for coil cleaning, and they are much simpler than getting to the coils themselves. Using compressed air to clean the coils is an excellent way to avoid fin damage (the thin metal strips surrounding the coils and assisting with airflow). If the coils are in particularly bad shape, a detergent can be used to clean them. Once clean, a homeowner will likely notice some of the benefits mentioned below.

• Increased Efficiency: Clean coils are essential for a truly efficient system. They make it easier for the condenser to do its job.
• Quieter System: If the system is not working as hard, it means less wear and tear on the entire thing.
• Consistent Temperatures: A system that works at its best will improve the optimal temperature.

About Albritton Service Co

Family-owned and operated and dedicated to providing excellent service, Albritton Service Co is available for 24/7 emergency service in Ruston, LA, and the surrounding communities. Call them today for AC service from a trustworthy, licensed, and insured technician.

[press_release_images][/press_release_images]

[press_release_distributions id=”187317″][/press_release_distributions]

Warning Signs of a Failing Breaker Panel

If there is a brain to a home’s electrical system, it is the electric panel. If something happens to cause it to malfunction, it can cause major issues with the electricity supply in the house. It can also have disastrous consequences for the home, including property destruction from electrical fires. This article will discuss three major signs of the need for electrical panel repair.

Indicator #1: Flickering Lights

Lights that flicker do not necessarily mean there is a problem with the breaker panel. It could be a problem with the light bulbs or a wiring issue within a lamp or ceiling fan. If lights are flickering everywhere in the house, the problem is likely the electrical panel. So to recap, dimming or flickering lights can have several causes:

• Flickering Light bulb:  Sometimes, before bulbs completely burn out or stop working, they flicker. This is especially true with halogen bulbs. If just one bulb is flickering or dimming, then it is most likely that the bulb needs to be replaced.
• Damaged Wires: If the bulb seems to be working, or it is every light in the ceiling fan, for example, it could wire that has gotten damaged through wear and tear or pest damage. If a homeowner notices a problem with a lamp cord, for example, then they should unplug that appliance and replace it. If the damage is in the electrical lines in the walls, then they should have an electrical professional come and assess the problem.
• Breaker Panel: If a whole room or section of the house experiences flickering or dimming lights, the breaker box may be the culprit. A professional should also investigate this.

Indicator #2: Burning Smell Near the Breaker Box

One real emergency indicator is the homeowners smell something burning. This smell is never a positive sign, but if it comes from near the breaker panel, this is a serious concern. This is a problem that should be dealt with right away by experts. If a homeowner smells an electrical burning smell, they should do two things:

• Shut off the power immediately if possible
• Call the fire department

These two acts can prevent an electrical fire from destroying a whole house or causing injury or worse to the people in the household. Never ignore such an ominous sign.

Indicator #3: Old Age

If a homeowner has been in a house for a long time, they may have reason to be concerned about their electrical panel. While they may last longer than other parts of the house, electrical panels should be checked regularly for problems. They can last as long as 40 years, but if unexpected damage occurs, it should be addressed. Electricians and electrical technicians are there to do the work properly, helping homeowners avoid danger.

About Albritton Service Co

Since 1982, Albritton Service Co has been family owned and operated, serving the people of Ruston, LA, and the surrounding communities. They offer 24/7 emergency electrical service from trustworthy technicians. Call today for an appointment to ensure home comfort.

[press_release_images][/press_release_images]

[press_release_distributions id=”183534″][/press_release_distributions]