Author: The Darville Company

It’s not even officially summer yet, and it’s already hot hot hot in the Odessa and Midland areas. We expect warm weather, but it’s rare to see triple-digit heat as early as we have this year! All indications are pointing to a very hot summer! With that said, it’s critical that you prepare your home as best as possible, not only to maximize comfort but to maximize HVAC efficiency as well. In this post, we’ll discuss a few tips on sealing your home to make sure the cool air stays inside and the hot air stays out!

AIR LEAKS

Just like a leaky pipe is bad for your plumbing, leaky doors and windows can wreak havoc on your HVAC. If water, light, or dirt can get through the cracks around the edges of your doors and windows, air can get through too! And there are other areas to inspect for air leakage as well:

Outside your home, look for any gaps between concrete, brick, wood siding, roofing, etc. Air can get inside your walls making your home more accessible.

On the inside, look for any possible space for air to get in. This could be a slot for your mail, phone, or internet lines, vents, ducts, or other possible entrances.

SEALING OPTIONS

Caulking works great for sealing small air leaks. This can include spaces around outlets, light fixtures, and even cracks in the walls. Just make sure to clean the area before applying the caulk to ensure a tight fit.

Weatherstrips are a good solution, especially for doors. They’ll help fill the space between the door and the frame, and keep unwanted air out. Just make sure you’re using the correct type of stripping for your door!

In some cases, both caulking and weatherstrips may be used on the same job to help fill a large space.

THE HIGHER STANDARD

The goal at The Darville Company is to ensure your comfort in your own home. We can help you evaluate any potential problem areas and help you determine the best way to get them sealed. Right now is a great time to get a Clean and Test service on your entire system to make sure you’re ready for summer! Make an appointment online or call us at (432) 580-9675. The Darville Company is the Higher Standard of Home Comfort.

Even if you have modern central air conditioning, there are still advantages to utilizing a ceiling fan to help cool your home. However, it’s important to recognize that ceiling (or other) fans are not the same as air conditioners and do not promise the same results. In this post, we’ll explain how to use ceiling fans so they can efficiently complement your A/C to create cool air and comfort this summer.

GET MOVING

Unlike air conditioning, ceiling fans don’t actually cool the air. Instead, they create movement in the air – which makes it feel cool when it hits your skin. When used in conjunction with your traditional A/C unit, it can create a one-two punch of efficiency that keeps you comfortable.

That said – it only makes sense to keep the fan on when you’re actually in the room. Circulating air will make it feel cooler, but it won’t actually be any cooler, so there’s no need to keep the fan on if no one’s there to feel the breeze it’s creating. In fact, the running motor of a fan could actually increase the air temperature in the room. Thankfully, ceiling fans don’t use a ton of energy, but every little bit counts when you’re trying to conserve and lower your power bills!

CEILING FAN STRATEGY

When you are at home, it still makes sense to run the fan in the room where you are. Because the air makes it feel cooler, you won’t need to crank the A/C in order to feel a comfortable temperature. Do you know how it feels when you’re outside on a hot day and a breeze comes along to bring you some relief? By using a fan, you could achieve that “feels-like” temperature with the thermostat in your home set at up to 10 degrees warmer than you would otherwise. That can result in some major savings.

Ceiling fans are a valuable asset and a desirable accessory in any room. They even have the same cooling effect outdoors on the patio!

WINTER FANS

A little-known fan secret is that they work in the wintertime, too! The small switch on the base of the fan will cause the blades to spin in theopposite direction. Now, instead of pushing cool air down into the middle of the room, it’s drawing warm air up to the ceiling, then distributing it around the room. This helps heat your home in the winter the same way it gives your A/C a boost in the summer!

THE HIGHER STANDARD

At The Darville Company, your comfort is our priority! We are constantly looking for solutions that will help keep you and your family comfortable in your home – and fans can be a part of that equation! For a consultation on your HVAC and the comfort in your home, make an appointment online or call us today at(432) 580-9674. The Darville Company is the Higher Standard of Home Comfort.

Spring is here in Odessa and Midland, and that means we’re already seeing temperatures in the 90s. Before it gets too hot, it’s probably a good idea for you to tackle a few home improvement projects. In this post, we’ll discuss some of the advantages of a good spring cleaning and how it can benefit you and your household.

STOP THE SNIFFLES

Allergies are notoriously bad in the springtime. All that new pollen in the air can wreak havoc on your nose! The good news is that there are a few things you can do around the house that can help. The key point is keeping those outdoor allergens away from the inside of your home and letting your HVAC system manage the air you’re breathing. This includes things like regularly washing your clothes and bedsheets. Take your shoes off when you’re inside to prevent allergens from sticking to your carpet. Mop and dust your home regularly, and make sure to keep screens in any open windows or doors.

A whole-home air purifier, such as the HALO-LED can help keep the air in your home as clean as possible!

DUCT INSPECTION

Your air ducts carry treated air from your HVAC unit to the living spaces in your home. Over time, they can accumulate dust, pollon, mold, or other allergens. It’s a good idea to get them professionally cleaned every few years, but there is a simple step you can take on your own. Remove the register grates from each vent and reach in and wipe away any dust you can reach. While you’re at it, clean the register, too.

SEALING AIR LEAKS

If sunlight or water can get through the cracks in your doors or windows, that means air can get through too! Make sure they’re good and sealed. During the summer this will keep the cool air inside, and the hot air outside!

CLEAN AND TEST

Preparing your air conditioner for the busy summer season is perhaps the most important thing you can do to get ready for the heat. The Darville Company’s Clean and Test will professionally inspect and test your entire system, making sure it’s ready for the summer ahead. Regular tune-ups also ensure that your system will last longer and won’t need replacing as quickly. A couple of simple things you can do to help include regularly changing your air filters, and making sure your outdoor unit is clear of leaves or other debris.

THE HIGHER STANDARD

If you’re ready for a cool, comfortable spring, The Darville Company can help. Make an appointment online, or call us today at (432) 580-9678 to schedule your Clean and Test today. The Darville Company is the Higher Standard.

Summer may not have officially arrived in Odessa and Midland yet, but summer temperatures certainly have. It’s likely you’ve already had a few days where you’ve blasted the air conditioner just to keep cool. Even when the A/C is doing its job of keeping you comfortable, it may not be running as smoothly as possible. In this post, we’ll discuss some of the causes of a loud air conditioner and what you can do about it!

INTERPRET EACH NOISE

If your A/C is making a high-pitched screeching sound, you likely have a problem with the bearings on your fan motor. This can be especially evident right when your unit turns on. Depending on the severity, it may be a good idea to turn the system off until a trained HVAC technician can take a look at it. An expert from The Darville Company can replace the fan motor which should eliminate the noise and increase your unit’s efficiency.

A loud banging sound when you fire up your A/C may mean that debris of some kind has made its way into your system and is now trapped in your unit. It’s also possible that the fan is out of place and hitting the interior of the unit. Either way, if you’re consistently hearing loud banging, turn the system off and call a professional right away!

Maybe there’s no screeching or banging, but instead, you hear a loud buzzing noise. If the noise seems louder near the air handler, or even near the outside unit, it’s likely an electrical problem. It could involve the motor, wiring, capacitor, or compressor, so it’s best to call an HVAC pro and let them take a look. Finding the source yourself can be like looking for a needle in a haystack.

A clicking sound can be just as annoying as the sounds above and could be caused by a variety of issues. It may be something as simple as debris caught in the blower fan but could be an electrical issue as well. If the clicking is especially loud when the unit kicks on, it could be an electrical problem, possibly involving the thermostat.

THE HIGHER STANDARD

Problems with your HVAC unit are not the best time to flex your DIY skills. It’s important that a professional evaluate your system and efficiently make the necessary repairs to keep you comfortable. The Darville Company has technicians that are certified in HVAC maintenance. We can fix all the issues above, as well as clean and lubricate the motor. If you’re experiencing any of these noises, make an appointment online, or call us today at (432) 580-9675. The Darville Company is the Higher Standard.

Everyone knows Texas is hot, but as we’ve seen all too recently, it can get cold here too! The Darville Company is your source for all things heating and air to make sure you stay warm into the spring. You may not realize that an HVAC unit can include many accessories to help enhance your comfort and convenience. They can even help you breathe easier and save you money. Let’s explore a few of the HVAC add-ons that can make life easier!

AIR PURIFIERS

Air purifiers go beyond regular filters and scientifically clean the air. As air passes through the purifier, ions attach themselves to dust, mold, pollen, and other contaminants. This process is able to make your air much cleaner than a traditional filter. It’s a great option for those with allergies and has been shown to eliminate up to 90% of airborne viruses as well.

DEHUMIDIFIERS

The opposite of humidifiers, dehumidifiers make the air drier. It doesn’t seem like this would be necessary for West Texas, but keeping bathrooms dry can still be important after a long, steamy shower. Dehumidifiers not only reduce the risk of mold or mildew but also make it easier to vacuum dust or other contaminants from the air.

THERMOSTAT

A programmable thermostat has a lot of advantages. You can set it to get warm or cool when you aren’t even home. Set it to your desired temperature so it’s comfy when you arrive. You can also save money by making sure your HVAC isn’t running when you’re not home. Many models these days even allow you to control it from an app on your smartphone, like the recently launched American Standard Home app!

CARBON MONOXIDE ALARMS

All homes should have fire alarms, but do you have a carbon monoxide alarm as well?Carbon Monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless gas that can be deadly to breathe. CO alarms are especially important for homes that use gas, as a leak could turn fatal before you even know what’s happening. It’s also a good idea to have a CO alarm if you use your chimney or fireplace with any regularity.

UV LAMPS

UV lamps are another way to clean the air, along with filters and purifiers. A UV light works to sanitize the air by killing tiny organisms and eliminating up to 98% of germs. This can help keep your entire unit clean, from the inside of your home to your ducts and the HVAC system itself.

VENTILATORS

Ventilators are used if you want to allow some air to come into your house from outside. Many people try to keep their home sealed as tightly as possible, but there are advantages to letting fresh air from outside into your home. Ventilators help pull the fresh air in while pushing pollutants out.

ZONING SYSTEMS

Zoning systems help ensure the rooms in your home that are being used are the ones kept at the right temperature. If the third bedroom is hardly ever used, why pay to keep it warm or cool? When company is gathered in the living areas, make sure those rooms are the most comfortable. Zoning systems can work in conjunction with a programmable thermostat to promote comfort and efficiency.

DUCTLESS 

Ductless air can serve a couple of purposes. It’s great if you want to hyper-zone your home, with heating or cooling units in every room. The other purpose is for specific rooms where the ducts might not reach. Like a garage, basement, or possibly a sunroom. These areas can stay comfortable thanks to a ductless system.

THE HIGHER STANDARD

As you can see, there are LOTS of accessories when it comes to your HVAC! Darville can help you find the ones that work for you! Call us for an appointment today at 432-580-9675. The Darville Company is the Higher Standard!

The Permian Basin was having a relatively mild winter until our recent freeze. As we’ve seen firsthand, freezing temps overnight can easily cause some major problems if you’re notprepared. A frozen heat pump will render it useless, and unable to heat your home. In this post, we’ll examine a few steps you or a professional can take to prevent this from happening (or happening again if it did this month).

HARD FREEZE

To prevent your heat pump from freezing, you have to know what causes it to freeze – it’s more than just cold weather.

• Low refrigerant: If your refrigerant level is low, it’s likely because it’s leaking. Low refrigerant disrupts the coils in the heat pump, which can cause them to freeze.
• Fan motor: If the fan motor is old or damaged, this could contribute to the unit freezing. An easy way to prevent damage is by keeping the area clear of leaves and other debris. It’s also possible that the motor is just old and needs to be replaced.
• Low airflow: A clogged filter restricts airflow, which can result in ice building up on the coils. This can lead to a frozen pump and all the issues that come with it.
• Frozen over: Combine prolonged freezing weather with the factors above and your entire unit could freeze. This typically isn’t something that happens in West Texas, especially Odessa and Midland, but this winter has been unlike any other. If your entire unit freezes, it’s definitely time to call a professional.

THE HIGHER STANDARD

The Darville Company hascertified professionals to guarantee you stay warm and cozy all winter long! We offer complete heating and air services and can give you an honest assessment of your entire system. Make an appointment today by calling 432-580-9675. The Darville Company is the Higher Standard.

In an average US home, heating and cooling generally account for more than 50% of the energy used. With that much at stake, it’s important to have a good air conditioning repair service lined up, just in case anything goes wrong with the unit that’s providing you with not only comfort but vital heating and cooling services. Whether it’s in the long hot summer months, or the short dark winter days you want to make the best choice for your HVAC services and maintenance.

Before you do go the professional route, it’s never a bad idea to troubleshoot some minor HVAC maintenance yourself. For instance, be sure that the filter is clean, unclogged and has been replaced on a regular schedule. If you have central AC it’s also a good idea to check your thermostat to ensure it is set correctly, and take a peek outdoors and check to see if there is at least a few feet of space between any plants and the compressor. Basically, you don’t want the plants to block adequate air flow to the unit, which can cause it to malfunction.

It’s true that air conditioning repair can be costly and exhausting, but it’s well worth it once the summer has started and a break from the heat suddenly becomes a necessity. It’s also true that a lot of times the anticipation and dread of contacting a local HVAC contractor is worse than the experience of actually setting up an appointment for them to come do an onsite inspection and provide a quote. A good way around this feeling of dread is to set up an annual appointment to “checkup” on your HVAC system. This can often catch issues early and prevent last minute crises that lead to 100-degree houses! It’s also a good way to find an HVAC contractor you really trust, and build a good long-term relationship with them.

Air conditioning repair or water heater repair are never our favorite things to wrestle with, be it in the middle of summer vacation, or in the dead of a snowy winter. But with proper maintenance and a discerning eye toward a reliable HVAC contractor, a faulty air conditioning or water heater should never have to interfere with your summer days or chilly winter nights.

According to HVAC contractors, at least 75% of heat repair calls received in the winter months are due simply to a lack of maintenance. Following these few steps can prevent your HVAC unit from having problems when you need it most.

Change the Filters

The first and most obvious step to keep your HVAC unit running smoothly and to prevent unnecessary AC and heat repair is to change the filters. As the name suggests, the filters are there to filter out dust, dirt, and outside pollens from entering your home. Regularly switching them out not only gives you cleaner air, but also allows your HVAC unit to run at optimal condition. It is advised to change filters once every two to three months, though during the summer and winter months, when you are using the HVAC unit more often, you might want to change them every month.

Only Use Your HVAC When Needed

This may seem even more obvious than changing filters, but it can be the hardest tip to follow. Turning your HVAC unit off when you aren’t using it, either because you aren’t home or because the weather outside doesn’t require it, can extend its life by reducing wear and tear. This habit isn’t only good for your HVAC unit, it will also save you money by lowering your monthly energy bill.

Schedule Cleaning with HVAC Services

In order to run smoothly, HVAC systems need to have maintenance inspections at least once every six months. Schedule a time with your HVAC contractors to have them do a routine cleaning and inspection for any AC or heat repairs that may be needed. This will help it run more smoothly and efficiently, which will also help save you money in electricity bills.

Preventative Maintenance

In addition to general cleaning and inspection, your HVAC contractor may suggest preventative maintenance. This is just what it sounds like, and even though it seems strange to pay someone to fix something that isn’t broken, it can actually save you money in the long run and prevent future heating and air problems. It’s better to repair a problem while it’s small than to let it escalate into something that would be expensive to replace. This can also extend the life expectancy of your unit.

You rely on your HVAC system to keep your home or business comfortable, especially in the winter and summer months. Following these simple steps to take care of your unit can not only save you money but also prevent future problems.