NexGen is known for high-quality air conditioning services in Southern California. Our licensed and insured technicians can install any type of system, including a ductless mini-split AC. Mini-split systems are often recommended for smaller homes, older properties, and those where it’s more difficult to install ductwork. Highly versatile and flexible, they can also accommodate a larger home. If you’re wondering, “How does a split AC work for a larger house?”, we’ll look at what you need to consider when setting one up.
Split ACs, whether single- or multi-zone, have one outdoor compressor/condenser unit. Depending on the system’s type and configuration, the outdoor unit can be connected by refrigerant tubing, a power cable, a condensate drain, and suction tubing to one or more indoor air handlers. Each air handler can be controlled individually, so you can set the temperature as you like for one room or area.
You can connect up to eight air handler units to a single condenser unit. But whether this is necessary depends on your home. The system can be expanded with additional units if you decide to build a home addition or convert a basement or attic to a living space.
Whether you need a mini-split for every room depends on your needs. For example, you might like a cooler bedroom while other occupants like it warmer in their bedrooms. Or, you might want the living room warmer and the home office cooler.
As you can see, installing a mini-split AC system requires a lot of planning. But you don’t necessarily need an air handler in every room. This can be expensive in a large home. A single “zone” can include multiple rooms or even an entire floor. It just needs proper airflow to provide sufficient cooling or heating.
Installing a system that’s the right size is key to how a split AC works in a larger home. A mini-split system’s size is determined by its capacity in British Thermal Units (BTUs). A BTU is a measure of how much energy it uses to remove heat. Here are some examples of room sizes and the capacity required for them:
The indoor units and condenser are connected by a conduit, which requires a 3-inch hole in an exterior wall. If you spread a mini-split AC system over multiple rooms and floors, the distance between the farthest head units and the outdoor unit affects how far the refrigerant must travel. The longer this distance, the less efficient the system can be due to friction, the energy required to pump the coolant, and heat transfer between the lines and ambient air (insulating the lines can minimize heat loss).
Depending on the make and model, refrigerant lines can extend 66 to 98 feet from the outdoor unit. This works for most houses. But if you require head units installed at longer distances, or exceed the number of units a condenser can handle, another outdoor unit can be added.
“How does a split AC work in a larger house?” is a question we can easily answer. The experienced technicians at NexGen will explain the process and evaluate the needs of your home. Configuring different zones allows you to set the temperature perfectly for each room. To learn more about ductless heating and cooling systems, schedule a consultation, and learn about options and financing, call 833-729-9735 today.
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At NexGen, we strongly advise against DIY installation, no matter what type of AC system you’ve purchased. Most air conditioning systems have numerous components. All these must be properly installed for the unit to work safely, reliably, and efficiently. Nonetheless, many clients ask us about the AC installation process, including the types of tools we use.
There are many items in a professional AC installer’s toolkit. Here’s a look at a few tools our technicians use:
As you can see, an AC installer carries an arsenal of tools. It would be quite expensive to buy all these for a one-off install. Plus, you risk operational issues due to installation mistakes or causing damage that’s costly to fix. At NexGen, our crews are fully trained, licensed, and equipped to install any type of air conditioner. To schedule AC installation in Southern California, receive a friendly estimate, or learn about financing, call (805) 301-6788 today.
Homeowners in Southern California rely on NexGen for water filtration installation and repair. Just like any other part of your plumbing system, water filtration components need occasional service. Below, we’ll look at the signs you need water filtration system repair and when to schedule service for water treatment equipment.
The most common signs your water filtration system isn’t working properly include:
Keeping your water supply clean and clear requires mechanical processes. How frequently filtration equipment is serviced depends on the quality of your municipal water supply, how much water your family uses, and other factors, The type of equipment matters too:
We repair inline and whole-house water filtration systems so they continue to remove heavy metals, chlorine, disinfectants, pesticides, hard water minerals, and other impurities. Our technicians are fully licensed and insured and can address any problem. As a member of our X Protection Plan, you’ll receive priority service, expedited repairs, and an extended parts and labor warranty. Check back often for our latest offers. To request 24/7 service, call (833) 729-9735 today.
Customers in Southern California rely on NexGen for leak detection and repair. Our plumbers employ advanced leak detection methods to find water, gas, or refrigerant leaks. The method used for leak detection depends on the type of leak suspected, the size of the system, how much water is used, and what’s currently known about the problem.
Here are a few common methods used for accurately finding leaks:
Our licensed, bonded, and insured plumbers can find a leak no matter where the damage is and whether it’s water, gas, or refrigerant. We use the latest equipment so breaking through walls, floors, or ceilings isn’t necessary. Using proven methods, we can provide leak detection and repair 24/7 and fix the damage promptly and correctly. To receive a free quote and evaluation, call (833) 729-9735 today.
Refrigerant is what enables your AC to absorb heat and cool your home. A coolant leak can cause the system to malfunction and break down. An air conditioner can also leak water. No matter what is leaking from it, the unit needs to be repaired before it’s seriously damaged. Sometimes a leak is barely noticeable. But an air conditioner is good at signaling problems. We’ll look at the common signs of leakage so you know when to schedule an HVAC leak repair service.
A refrigerant leak can originate from the evaporator coil in the air handler, a capillary tube in the condenser unit, or flare fittings where tubing attaches to an AC component. Since your AC requires refrigerant to function properly, the signs of a leak include:
A refrigerant leak is extremely dangerous, aside from the other inconveniences it causes. The fumes are a health hazard. Seek medical help if you suspect a leak and experience dizziness, shortness of breath, nausea, loss of focus/coordination, or severe throat, nose, or sinus pain; these are signs of refrigerant poisoning.
Air conditioners are designed to extract moisture, but a water leak is not a minor issue. It can cause major damage. Professional leak repair services can address the causes of an AC water leak, such as:
At NexGen, our fully licensed and insured technicians can quickly troubleshoot, diagnose, and repair your AC system if it has a refrigerant or water leak. We are available 24/7 for emergencies. Whether your air conditioner isn’t cooling, won’t drain properly, or has a damaged coil, our team will fix it right the first time and avoid any further hazards or damage. Contact us online or call (833) 729-9735 to schedule AC repair.
Your air conditioner is on most or all of the time in summer, so the air filter will clog up more quickly. As dust and dirt get trapped, the system will become more inefficient. A clogged filter can cause it to overheat and shut down. If the unit freezes due to low airflow, it can produce less warm air or turn off.
When the evaporator coil freezes, there’s usually an issue that’s causing poor airflow. Air must blow over the coil to supply heat for it to absorb. Otherwise, condensation on its surface will freeze. Low refrigerant will also reduce the heat absorption rate.
A blockage in an air duct or a closed register can also impede airflow. The issue can be due to a fan problem as well. If a fan run slowly or not at all, it will reduce airflow and trigger other issues. A faulty thermostat or a malfunctioning air handler could also cause a lack of airflow.
Designed to expel warm air, the outdoor unit’s condenser coils are prone to clogging up with dust, debris, and grime, especially when air pollution is high. If a coil is clogged, it restricts heat transfer. Your AC will work harder, increasing wear and tear, which can cause it to break down or fail prematurely.
As the coils start to clog, the system will consume more energy, so your utility bills may go up. A spike in your monthly bill is a reason to call a professional. Prompt fixes can avoid more costly air conditioner repairs.
Your AC system’s moving parts work harder in the summer. These include the evaporator coil fan, condenser coil fan, fan motors, fan belts, expansion valve, and dampeners. A broken fan blade can reduce system performance. If your AC isn’t working properly, it may also be due to faulty wiring or a problem with a thermostat sensor. Capacitors, typically found on the unit’s circuit board, can fail due to wear and tear, or they can decline in strength, affecting system performance.
Aside from an overheated capacitor, air conditioners can develop wiring, contactor, relay, transformer, switches, and other problems that disrupt their electrical flow. Since an AC runs on electricity, such an issue will prevent it from working properly, if at all. Air conditioners are susceptible to electrical problems in summer due to frequent usage and exposure to harsh conditions such as hot temperatures, air pollution, rain, hail, and falling debris.
Regular maintenance allows technicians to catch problems early and fix them. Breakdowns and major repairs can be avoided. If your AC hasn’t had spring maintenance, it’s at a greater risk of needing repairs in summer (that’s when it’s under the most strain). Such is also the case if the system is outdated. If your AC is over 15 years old, it may be near the end of its useful life, a time when it is most likely to need another repair. The summer heat can put the unit over its tipping point so it stops working.
At NexGen, our licensed professionals repair all common AC problems. We’re Google Certified for Home Services and have highly experienced repair technicians who arrive with replacement parts to get your AC working as quickly as possible. We also offer warranties of up to 12 years and have financing plans available to make budgeting easy. To request air conditioner repair in your Southern California home, call (833) 729-9735 today.
Every HVAC problem invokes a sense of dread. Is it something minor, or will you spend hundreds or even thousands of dollars on repairs? Foul odors usually mean big problems. If your HVAC smells like skunk, the source may or may not be rodents, but there’s no doubt a professional should check it out.
A strong, unpleasant odor may suddenly occur for the following reasons:
Small rodents and other animals like nesting in sheltered places. Crawl spaces and air ducts are ideal for them, especially if there’s a food source nearby. An infestation in these places can release particles, odors, and viruses into the air that circulates throughout your home.
To investigate whether you have an infestation in your HVAC system, remove the vent covers and look for signs of animal activity. Hair, food particles, and droppings are telltale signs. If the scent is coming from that area, it will be stronger when you remove the vent cover. Also, check for damage to your home’s foundation and exterior.
If one or both of these issues are present, call an exterminator and someone to clean out your HVAC system.
If your HVAC smells like skunk, one may have sprayed nearby, and the odor may be detectable inside. It can also reach your AC system and propagate through your ductwork. If you can determine that a skunk is outside and probably sprayed, turn off the AC until the smell dissipates. The odor should go away once you turn it on again.
A skunk odor in your home should be taken seriously because of the potential for a gas leak, especially if you have a furnace or other gas appliances. Although a gas leak usually smells like rotten eggs or sulfur, methyl mercaptan (what gas companies add to make gas leaks detectable) can smell like skunk spray to some people. Natural gas is otherwise odorless but very dangerous.
If you can’t find any other source of the skunk smell, evacuate your home and call for help. The gas can make you sick and carbon monoxide may be present.
It’s not hard to confuse the smell of natural gas and sewer gas. Originating from your sanitary sewer line or septic system, these odors are created by methane combined with hydrogen sulfide and other gases. Hydrogen sulfide is produced as plant and animal materials decompose.
One way to deal with a sewer gas odor is to run a rarely-used faucet. The drain may have dried out, allowing sewer gas to back up. Letting the water run can stop this from happening. If your HVAC smells like skunk, check for underutilized plumbing fixtures. If running a faucet doesn’t fix the issue, there may be a broken drain line or clogged pipe.
Therefore, a skunk odor can be caused by an HVAC or plumbing problem, so you’ll need a professional to determine the source.
Our HVAC professionals can provide AC repair and maintenance if a skunk odor is in your home. They can also determine if the issue is coming from your plumbing or sewer lines, or if there’s a potential gas leak. We can fix your air conditioning system, repair plumbing (including gas lines), and clean drains as necessary. Affordable, low-interest financing is available upon approved credit. Call (833) 729-9735 to learn more or schedule service.
Trees can add shade and beauty to your property. They’re also good at boosting curb appeal. But they’re often not a benefit for your sewer pipes. Tree root intrusion is a more common problem than many people realize. When a customer learns their plumbing woes are caused by tree roots, they often ask, “How do tree roots get into sewer lines?”
To answer that question, let’s first look at how tree roots work. Any tree requires enough water to survive. Water contains the moisture, nutrients, and oxygen needed for a tree to grow and sustain itself (roots naturally grow toward water sources). Sewer lines contain all of these. And just like tree roots, they’re contained underground.
How do roots find the sewer line in the first place? We’ll now explain this in more detail:
A pipe can develop holes or crack due to corrosion. Ground movement and settling can cause damage as well. No matter how minute an opening is, it can release enough water to attract roots. And the roots can use this entry point to grow into the pipe, fill it up, and catch grease, oil, fats, dirt, and other materials that contribute to a blockage.
But the sewer line doesn’t have to be leaking or broken to attract tree roots.
As water flows through a pipe, moisture-, oxygen-, and nutrient-filled vapors can escape into the soil, even if there isn’t a true leak, and reach nearby roots. Sensing the direction these vapors came from, roots grow toward the sewer pipe. Tree roots are strong and persistent. They can sometimes break into or crush a pipe; or, if there’s a loose joint or connection, push it apart and begin to grow inside.
If tree roots have reached or gotten into a sewer line, the pipe must be repaired by a professional plumber. Only they have the experience, knowledge, and tools to resolve the problem. Avoid using chemical solutions. They can poison the tree and contaminate the environment. Plus, depending on what the pipe is made of, chemicals can do more damage. If a pipe is already weakened, chemicals can cause it to break down and fail.
However, there are safer ways to prevent tree roots from affecting sewer lines, including:
Aside from a plumbing camera inspection, there are other ways to suspect a tree root problem. Common signs of tree roots in a sewer line include backed-up toilets or plumbing fixtures, soggy areas on your lawn, and frequent drain clogs. The smell of sewage in your home means a sewer line has been compromised. Other signs of damage can range from as subtle as a gurgling toilet to visible water damage along your home’s foundation.
At NexGen, we provide safe and effective tree root removal services in Southern California. We can use a drain snake with a rotating cable, a rooter machine, or hydro jetting to break up tree roots. Our licensed, insured technicians also fully repair affected sewer lines and take preventative measures to inhibit future intrusions. To learn more or schedule professional tree root removal on your property, contact us online or call (833) 729-9735.
Spring blooms mean pollen is in the air. Pollen from trees, grass, and flowers stays suspended until it settles or you breathe it in. The tiny grains can trigger allergy symptoms and asthma attacks. Pollen also settles on surfaces, so it can mix with dust and build up in your HVAC system. Therefore, numerous issues can occur when the pollen count is high.
Pollen can affect your AC when it builds up on the evaporator coil. This makes it harder for the unit to absorb heat and transfer it out of your home. If pollen settles on the condenser coil, the system will struggle to release heat, causing your air conditioner to overheat, shut down, or be seriously damaged. But here are ways to protect your AC from pollen:
One of the best defenses against pollen is a physical barrier. While it may be tempting to open windows in mild weather, closing them can keep pollen and other particulates out. Therefore, you can improve indoor air quality and get relief from allergies. The same pollen that triggers your symptoms also won’t reach your air conditioning system.
Debris, including plants, branches, and leaves, can cause pollen to blow into the outdoor condenser unit. To protect it, trim vegetation a few feet away on each side. You can also prevent plants from growing nearby by installing paver bricks or gravel around the unit.
Rinsing off the outdoor unit with a garden hose can wash away pollen and particles. If pollen settles on the unit, it can drift or blow inside. Washing the unit at medium pressure can eliminate grains, powder, and residue so they don’t cause problems.
Indoor air circulates up to six times per hour. This gives pollen plenty of opportunities to blow into your home and clog up your AC filter. Check the filter every week when the pollen count is high. Clean or replace it when the filter has a lot of buildup. The longer you wait, the more pollen, dust, and debris will collect inside.
If the filter clogs quickly, or you have allergies and indoor air quality issues, upgrade your HVAC filter. Some filters use an electric charge to attract particles. But a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter will remove very fine particles, including pollen grains.
The air filter should trap most pollen in the air. However, pollen grains can still circulate and eventually settle in your ductwork. They can reenter the air supply when the AC turns on. In addition, pollen and other debris can form a coating that increases air friction, forcing your AC to work harder. Just a thin layer can interfere with airflow and prevent the unit from cooling your home efficiently.
Dry air makes it easier for pollen to remain suspended and circulate. A humidifier can increase the moisture content, which helps because moisture weighs pollen down. It also helps relieve dryness in your nose and throat which can exacerbate allergy symptoms when the pollen count is high. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, optimal indoor humidity levels range from 25% to 40%.
If your allergy symptoms are due to contamination in your AC, you may experience sneezing, wheezing, and congestion; dry, itchy skin; and possibly nosebleeds. You may feel irritation and congestion while at home that goes away when you leave. If there’s a mold or mildew smell, or dust or pollen is visibly floating in the air when windows are closed, your AC is almost certainly affected.
NexGen provides high-quality HVAC and indoor air quality services, including air duct cleaning, to protect your AC and home regardless of the pollen count. Pollen can contribute to ductwork contamination and blockages. Excessive amounts of particulates in your home can be due to poor sealing. At NexGen, we can help with all these issues and protect your air conditioning system. Call (833) 729-9735 to request service.
A clogged drain is one of the most common plumbing problems, and nearly everyone eventually deals with one. Sometimes you can resolve the issue with a plunger. But when do you need a professional? Here are the top 8 signs it’s time to call a drain unclogging service.
No matter how much you enjoy swimming and other water activities, having standing water in your home is never good. Standing water in a sink, tub, or washing machine means a drainage pipe is clogged. Dishwashers and basement floor drains can also clog. Standing water around a toilet is another reason to call for help.
Soap, grease, hair, and other materials build up in drains and pipes. The problem often starts gradually. Your sink or bathtub may take longer to empty. The problem will only get worse until the drain clogs up completely. So, keep an eye on those drains when you wash your hands, brush your teeth, or take a shower. If one sink or fixture is slow, the clog is probably limited to that drain; if multiple sinks slow up, there may be a sewer line blockage.
You cleared your sink drain a few days ago, but it clogged again. If a clog keeps recurring, a serious blockage may be forming. The standard home remedies won’t eliminate such a clog, which may be due to stubborn residue or mineral scale. You’ll need a plumber to provide a drain unclogging service to resolve the issue.
You expect your home to smell clean and fresh. If a sewer line is clogged, that familiar fresh scent is replaced by foul odors that worsen over time. Your drains may work even though food, waste, and sewage are building up inside. If the smell is coming from a rarely used sink, run the water to fill the P-trap. Otherwise, call a plumber for help. And if you have musty odors from drains, call a professional to check for and clean out any mold.
A gurgling sound means air bubbles are forming as water pushes past a developing clog. The drain may still be working. You might also see air bubbles rising in the toilet as you run the sink faucet (indicating a possible sewer clog). The noise (and bubbles) should go away once a plumber removes what’s causing the clog.
No food scraps are lying around, but fruit flies suddenly appear. They won’t go away no matter how well you clean the kitchen. The likely reason is food buildup in a drainage pipe. A professional plumber is equipped to remove every trace of food from the drainage line. The flies will then move on in search of other food sources.
Seeing pests in the sink is a good reason to call a drain unclogging service. Bugs and small rodents can get into drain pipes through holes and breaks. A skilled plumber can find the broken pipe, seal it, or make repairs that prevent any other pests from getting in.
A fluctuating water bill isn’t a concern if it’s not a big change. But a dramatic increase from one month to another is a sign of a plumbing leak. While it’s more subtle than a clogged drain, it means there’s a serious problem. Have a plumber inspect your drains and pipes. They can use pipe inspection cameras to spot hard-to-find issues, fix them, and clean out your drains to prevent further problems.
NexGen provides drain cleaning services in Southern California by fully licensed, insured technicians. From pipe camera inspection to drain line snaking to hydro jetting, we use the latest tools and techniques to fix clogged drains no matter what’s inside them. Whether the issue is in your sink drain or sewer line, our team will diagnose the cause and get the water flowing again. Call (833) 729-9735 to request drain unclogging service today.
