What Do “Hold” & “Run” Mean on a Thermostat?

Programmable thermostats allow you to create schedules for temperature changes that fit your air conditioning and heating needs. These units come with many different settings and buttons, including ones you may need to become more familiar with. Many programmable thermostats have “Hold” and “Run,” but what exactly are these buttons? What do they do? In this article, we’ll take a look at the “Hold” and “Run” options on programmable thermostats and discuss how they can be helpful for a homeowner.   What Is a Programmable Thermostat? As the name implies, a programmable thermostat allows you to take control of your HVAC system, more than...

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2024 SEER Ratings: What To Know About the New HVAC Efficiency Standards

Rising utility bills are a common problem throughout Florida, and many homeowners are shocked to discover just how much more it costs to cool their homes this year than last. While you can’t control utility rates, you can invest in an energy-efficient cooling system to reduce utility usage. To that end, it’s important to understand SEER ratings and the latest requirements to select a suitable air conditioning system for your home, condo, or apartment. There were some significant changes this past year, and the team at Hopkins Air Conditioning can help you navigate your options to find the right one.   What...

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Why Is My AC Dripping Water? Causes & Solutions

Leaking air conditioners are a common problem homeowners face, especially during the heat of summer when the system is working overtime to keep your home cool. Understanding the causes of an AC leak can help you prevent the problem or correct it quickly. 5 Common Causes of Your AC Dripping Water There are several reasons your air conditioner may start leaking water and subsequently break down. These are the five most common: A Clogged Condensate Line The condensate drain line is used along with a condensate drain pan to remove excess moisture produced by your air conditioner as it cools...

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What Are the Signs of AC Contactor Failure?

For West Palm Beach homeowners, understanding the condition of your AC system is important for maintaining a comfortable and efficient home environment, especially with our hot, humid weather. A key part of an AC system is the contactor. It needs to work properly to keep your HVAC system running smoothly. But when it fails, it can lead to several problems affecting your comfort and the system’s efficiency.   What Is an AC Contactor? An AC contactor is an electrical component in your AC system that controls the flow of electricity to the air conditioning unit. It’s like a switch, engaging...

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What Should the Indoor Humidity Level Be in Florida Homes?

Florida is known for its warm climate and, more notably, its humidity. For homeowners, learning how to handle the moisture in the air can be a challenge, especially when it comes to maintaining comfort and health in your home. Understanding the ideal indoor humidity level is important for creating a comfortable space and ensuring your HVAC system operates efficiently. At Hopkins Air Conditioning, we know how important the humidity levels are in your home. Here’s information on what your indoor humidity level should be. How Humidity Levels Affect Your HVAC System & Home Excess humidity can make your Florida home...

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Do You Need To Clean Your Air Ducts?

How important are clean air ducts? Well, when it comes to maintaining a healthy and comfortable living environment, clean air ducts are more important than you may realize. At Hopkins Air Conditioning, we believe keeping your air ducts clean and in good condition is important no matter where you live. But in Palm Beach County, FL, it’s a critical part of home maintenance. Our climate can lower your indoor air quality and have a negative impact on your air ducts. But do you really need to clean your air ducts? Here’s what you need to know.   How Dirty Air...

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Is Heat More Expensive Than AC?

Between winter temperatures and humid, hot summers, your air conditioning and heating systems see a lot of use. With a significant portion of energy consumption tied to HVAC systems, homeowners often wonder why heating their households costs more than cooling them. In this blog, we’ll discuss how energy usage and outdoor climate contribute to these cost disparities and how you can keep your systems efficient and utility bills low. Why Does Heat Take More Energy? The temperature difference between indoor and outdoor environments plays a crucial role in the cost of heating and cooling your home. The colder it is...

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At What Temperature Do Heat Pumps Become Ineffective?

Heat pumps are a popular choice for heating and cooling homes, particularly in climates like Florida. They provide an energy-efficient alternative to traditional HVAC systems. However, heat pumps lose efficiency as the temperature drops. This is because they have to work harder to draw heat from the outside air. As a result, they may not be able to keep your home warm at below-freezing temperatures. Overall, heat pumps are a great option for Florida homeowners who want an energy-efficient way to heat and cool their homes.   How Heat Pumps Work Heat pumps operate by transferring heat from one place...

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Will Running Your AC in Winter Damage It?

As winter sets in, many homeowners in warm climates may wonder if running their air conditioner is safe. In places like Florida, it’s common to use AC units all year because the weather is mild. But it’s important to know the risks and implications of running your AC in the winter to make informed decisions about your home’s heating and cooling needs. If you need AC repair or have questions about your home’s HVAC system, don’t hesitate to contact Hopkins Air Conditioning! Can I Run the Air Conditioning During Winter? For traditional AC units that aren’t reversible heat pumps, turning off...

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5 Common Heat Pump Smells Explained

Heat pumps play a crucial role in keeping our homes comfortable by regulating temperature. However, unusual smells from your heat pump sometimes signal underlying issues. In this guide, we’ll explore five common heat pump smells, their possible causes, and how to address them. Musty or Stale Odor If your heat pump produces a musty or stale odor, it could be a sign of mold or mildew growth. This smell is often a result of moisture accumulating in the system. To eliminate it, ensure proper ventilation, clean or replace air filters regularly, and consider installing a dehumidifier in your home. Scheduling...

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