Oasis Heating, A/C & Refrigeration Blog : Archive for May, 2020

Dealing With Indoor Allergies Using Your Air Conditioner

Saturday, May 30th, 2020

Allergy Relief with Air Conditioning

You often hear about allergies in the Spring when everything is in bloom. However, allergens of some sort are present year-round. Many pesky allergens are found in our homes. When it’s hot outside, and you’re keeping your home’s interior shut off from the outside, this can actually be a time when indoor allergens are at their worst. Thankfully, you can use your air conditioner to find allergy relief for your indoor allergens. Here’s how.

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UV Germicidal Light Service in Burke, VA and Northern Virginia

Tuesday, May 26th, 2020

Ultraviolet (UV) light is a form of energy known as electromagnetic radiation. It comes from the sun and man-made sources. UV light is not visible to the human eye because it has a wavelength shorter than the light we can see. Ultraviolet germicidal irradiation is a method that uses a type of UV light — UVC light — to kill a range of germs.

What Is UV Light?

Within the visible light spectrum, violet has the shortest wavelength of any color. Any light with a shorter wavelength than violet is called ultraviolet. There are three types of UV light:

  • Ultraviolet A (UVA) light: UVA light is also known as blacklight, and it’s the type of UV light with the longest wavelength. Some birds and insects can see UVA light.
  • Ultraviolet B (UVB) light: UVB light is the type that causes sunburns. Most of this light is absorbed by the ozone in the Earth’s atmosphere.
  • Ultraviolet C (UVC) light: UVC light has the shortest wavelength of the UV light types and high energy. This form of light is also called germicidal and is used to disinfect air, water, food and laboratory equipment. The Earth’s atmosphere completely absorbs UVC rays, so they never make it to the surface.

Does UV Light Kill Viruses?

While all forms of UV light can inactivate various microorganisms on some level, UVC light is the most effective at killing germs, including viruses like the one that causes COVID-19. That’s why home or business owners may consider installing UV germicidal lights in their heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. These lights kill virus particles that would otherwise pass through air filters.

How Does UV Light Work?

UV germicidal lights inactivate viruses by damaging their genetic material and preventing them from replication. A virus needs its DNA or RNA to infect other living cells. Without this material, it cannot invade a human cell and make copies of itself. UVC light has been used for decades to destroy viruses and disinfect surfaces, air and water.

Does UV Light Kill the Coronavirus?

Although there are currently no studies that prove UV germicidal lights can kill the coronavirus, scientists say it’s likely. UVC is known to destroy viruses related to SARS-CoV-2, or the virus that causes COVID-19. This also includes the virus that causes MERS.

Does UV Light Kill Other Germs?

UV germicidal lights can also destroy bacteria and mold. Although tiny particles like viruses and bacteria are more vulnerable to UVC light than large ones, germicidal lamps still have the power to kill mold spores. UVC light is especially effective when it’s combined with high-efficiency air filtration.

How Does HVAC UV Light Installation Work?

UV germicidal lights can be installed inside your HVAC system. These lights can help clean the air inside your home by killing harmful microorganisms such as mold spores, bacteria and viruses. At OASIS Heating, A/C & Refrigeration, Inc., we can install a UV germicidal light inside your HVAC ductwork or air handler, which will keep these organisms from spreading throughout your home.

Even if you have efficient air filters installed in your HVAC system — whether it is an electronic or mechanical air filter — they are not designed to kill bacteria, viruses and other microorganisms. Filters can provide ultimate protection when installed alongside a UV germicidal light.

We can help you select the right combination to improve your indoor air quality and potentially reduce exposure to viruses, bacteria and allergens. We take the whole-home approach, so our indoor air quality experts may suggest other ways to eliminate pollutants.

UV Light Installation and Repair in Burke, VA

If you live in Ashburn, Springfield or Burke, VA, or the surrounding area and want to learn more about UV germicidal light installation and repair, we’re here for you at OASIS Heating, A/C & Refrigeration, Inc. We understand our customers are trying to protect themselves and their families during the coronavirus pandemic, and we want to help.

As an essential business, we are ready to help you create a comfortable home with clean indoor air. Our combined air purification and UV light systems can help prevent the spread of diseases during a future outbreak, trapping and killing viruses and bacteria that pass through your ductwork.

Our technicians are prepared to make a repair if anything should go wrong with your UV germicidal light system. From replacing bulbs to inspecting the equipment for other issues, we are equipped to resolve any issues you might have.

Contact OASIS Heating, A/C & Refrigeration, Inc. for UV Lights in Burke, VA

We are here to provide emergency solutions, new installations or answers to any of your questions. We can go over your options and help you select a model that works for you, and we won’t sell you something you don’t need. We take the time to make sure each job is done correctly, and we’re only satisfied when you are. Call today or contact us online to ask about our UV germicidal lights and services.

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The AC Air Filter: How Often Should It Be Changed or Cleaned?

Friday, May 22nd, 2020

Most of the jobs involved in regularly maintaining an air conditioning system must be handled by HVAC professionals. There’s an important exception, however, which is changing (or cleaning) the air filter. A maintenance technician will do this job during the regular tune-up and inspection, but the filter needs to have this done more than once a year.

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What Clicking Noises From Your AC May Mean

Friday, May 22nd, 2020

What-clicking-noises-from-your-ac-may-mean

Is your AC making noise? Generally speaking, any unusual sound coming from your air conditioning system is cause for concern.

Common Air Conditioner Noises

Here in Fairfax, VA, our air conditioning repair techs can handle your air conditioning problem. However, it does help if you, as the homeowner, have some idea of what specific sounds could indicate. When you can guess where the noises are coming from, you can point the repair professional in the right direction. Here are some of the most common air conditioning noises and what they may mean:

1. AC Making Clicking Noise

AC clicking noises can stem from fan blades that have been bent or are misaligned which causes the AC to sound like it’s clicking on and off. A stick or piece of detritus could have also gotten caught in the vent, causing the fan to click against the object. In these cases, the cause is apparent, and the repair technician can either properly align the fan or replace it with a new model.

More subtle clicking noises can be a part of the air conditioner’s normal operation. For example, these sounds could come from a relay or a contact performing as expected. In those cases, the clicking should stop shortly. If they repeat, however, it could mean a problem with your thermostat or compressor turning the relays on and off repeatedly and increasing wear and tear in the bargain. If you hear repeated clicking from your AC, you should call for a repair. Possible electric problems should never be ignored when an AC clicks on and off.

Buzzing sounds from ac system, ticking noise in ductwork with air conditioner clicking

2. Buzzing

If your air conditioner is making a buzzing sound, it is likely an electrical malfunction caused by loose or broken parts, leaks or compressor issues. If you suspect an electrical problem, turn off your system and contact a professional.

Buzzing could also be an indicator that your air conditioner’s “isolation feet” — the rubber legs at the base of your machine that support it — are wearing out. Buzzing might also mean a condenser coil, air filter or blower inside your system needs to be changed or replaced.

Hearing a clanking or rattling in ac system, air conditioner making clicking noises

3. Clanking or Rattling

If your air conditioner is making a lot of loud clanking or rattling noises, it could mean a part has come loose and fallen into a different component of the machine. Before you call a maintenance specialist, make sure you check that all visible screws and bolts are tightly secured, so you can eliminate that as a possibility.

If your air conditioner gets too cold, ice and excess moisture can also build up inside and cause a loud grinding noise, accompanied by rattling movements. If you think your air conditioner has frozen, turn it off and allow it time to thaw.

Dealing With a Noisy Air Conditioner? Oasis Can Help

If you live near Burke or Alexandria, VA, and are experiencing air conditioner problems, Oasis Heating, A/C & Refrigeration is here to help.

If you hear any noises that you aren’t accustomed to — even if they don’t seem to be affecting the performance of the air conditioner — turn the unit off and contact a qualified repair technician immediately instead of trying to fix the issue yourself. In addition to knowing what the noises from your air conditioner may mean, a good repair technician can also correct your machine safely and correctly.

Call Oasis today at 703-339-3877 to make an air conditioning repair appointment!

Contact our team in Northern Virginia to schedule your maintenance service.

“Great timely service. Knowledgable and neat techs. Good value.”

“Would absolutely use their services again. Arrived on schedule.”

-Springfield, VA

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How Your Thermostat Affects Your Heating

Friday, May 22nd, 2020

You interact with your heating system through your thermostat, which lets you set a comfortable temperature for your home.  There are thermostats available these days with many advanced features, which let you pull off nifty little tricks like turning the heat down when you leave for work, and then back up again soon before you come home. When they malfunction, they can seriously disrupt your ability to heat your home adequately. You need to know precisely how your thermostat affects your heating in order to know when to call your local Fairfax VA heating repair technician.

Most thermostats use a strip composed of two different types of metal laminated together. These metals will expand and contract at different rates depending upon what the temperature is. They’re usually placed in a coil with the metal that tends to expand more on the inside of the coil.  When the temperature goes up, the metal on the inside of the coil expands at a different rate than the metal on the outside of the coil. This causes the coil to unwind, which tips the mercury switch and starts the heating process. When the temperature is hot enough, the metal on the coil contracts, which turns the mercury switch off and shuts of the heater. The precise setting depends on the controls at the center, allowing you determine the exact temperature when this process takes place.

Knowing how your thermostat affects your heating means understanding what happens when things go wrong. If it can’t accurately determine the temperature or trigger the switch, it won’t turn the heat on when you need it (or turn it off once your home is comfortable). If you need repairs on your thermostat, call OASIS Heating, A/C & Refrigeration, Inc. to help. We handle all types of heating repair, Fairfax VA homeowners can depend on us, and our trained staff will work overtime to find a solution that meets your budget. Give us a call today!

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Happy Memorial Day!

Friday, May 22nd, 2020

Every year on the final Monday of May, citizens of America come together to honor those who have served our country. Formerly known as Decoration Day, Memorial Day came to prominence after the American Civil War to commemorate the fallen soldiers on either side. Although its origins are somewhat ambiguous, it has always been about bringing people together to recognize our country’s military personnel and history. We want to take this opportunity to thank all the men and women who have served our county.

Memorial Day also marks the beginning of summer. We hope that you have a wonderful day off, and that it is a great start to your summer! Stay safe and healthy!

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3 Ways to Keep Your Indoor Air Clean

Thursday, May 21st, 2020

Are you frustrated by the way that your air smells? An odd smell is one of the most common indicators that your indoor air should be evaluated, but it’s not the only one. In fact, indoor air quality is not so easily assessed by the senses alone, and it may take a professional evaluation to figure out what’s exactly in your air. Let’s take a look at three ways you can keep your indoor air clean! 

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UV Germicidal Lights Will Cut Down on Illnesses

Tuesday, May 19th, 2020

Do you want to avoid getting sick during the winter or change of seasons? Of course you do. There a number of ways to increase your chances of staying healthy through the season. One you may not have considered is to call professionals to install a special kind of air cleaner into your HVAC system: UV germicidal lights (also known as UV air purifiers).

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