Quality Air Conditioning Repair in Mountain House

Proudly servicing air conditioners, furnaces, ducts & commercial HVAC in Mountain House, CA

Is your hot air cold and your cold air hot? Sounds like you’re air conditioner is on the fritz, and you’re in desperate need of an air conditioner repair service! Every air conditioner, whether it’s brand new or a decade old, needs to be serviced regularly. Our professional HVAC technicians will make sure that your air conditioner and furnace are working properly to keep your home or business at the optimum temperature. Never spend another uncomfortably cold winter or unseasonably hot summer when you consider Irish Heating and Air your go-to furnace and air conditioning service provider.

The Irish HVAC repair crew in Mountain House

Air Conditioner Repair in Mountain House

Living in Mountain House, hot and arid summers quickly become a fact of life. Fortunately, an efficient air conditioner can greatly alleviate the discomfort that comes with the summer heat. A broken A/C can spell trouble for a home or commercial building in Mountain House, especially between the months of June through September.

With Irish Heating And Air, you’ll never have to worry about dealing with a broken air conditioner again. Our team of professionally trained and certified HVAC technicians comes fully equipped to repair or replace any make or model of A/C system you might have. That includes everything from the latest, most advanced systems to the older, more traditional ones.

Irish Heating and Air have over 15 years of experience in providing reliable A/C repairs in Mountain House and the surrounding area at an affordable price. Over the years, we’ve completed just about every A/C repair imaginable, which is why our team of seasoned A/C repair experts are able to diagnose and complete repairs so efficiently.

Learn more about our air conditioning repair services »

air conditioner after a refrigerant recharge

What really sets us apart from our competitors though, is our willingness to go the extra mile. Each and every one of our technicians is committed to providing high-quality repairs and exceptional customer service to anyone who calls and requests our services. Not convinced? Check out some of our reviews.

Several factors can contribute to your air conditioner breaking down. Here are some common reasons:

  1. Lack of Maintenance: One of the primary reasons for air conditioning system failure is neglecting regular maintenance. Without proper cleaning and servicing, dirt, dust, and debris can accumulate, leading to decreased efficiency and eventual system failure.
  2. Dirty Air Filters: When air filters become clogged with dirt and debris, airflow is restricted, causing the cooling system to work harder to cool your home. This strain can lead to overheating and component failure.
  3. Refrigerant Leaks: Low refrigerant levels can result from leaks in the system. Refrigerant is essential for cooling the air, and when levels are insufficient, the AC unit can’t effectively cool your home, leading to breakdowns.
  4. Electrical Issues: Problems with electrical components such as capacitors, relays, or wiring can cause your air conditioning unit to malfunction or stop working altogether. Electrical issues may arise due to age, wear and tear, or improper installation.
  5. Frozen Evaporator Coils: Restricted airflow or low refrigerant levels can cause the evaporator coils to freeze. When this happens, the AC unit won’t be able to absorb heat from your home, resulting in poor cooling performance or system failure.
  6. Overworking the System: Running your air conditioner continuously or setting the thermostat too low can put excessive strain on the system, leading to premature wear and tear and eventual breakdowns.

By addressing these potential issues and investing in regular maintenance, you can help prevent your air conditioner from breaking down prematurely.

With over a decade in the HVAC industry, we’ve noticed that some problems are more common than others. While the following list is far from exhaustive, they do include some of our most requested A/C repair services from home and business owners alike.

Your A/C System Won’t Turn On

An air conditioner that was running fine the other day, but won’t turn on at all today is far too common of a problem, and can easily be avoided with regular maintenance. The slow realization that your A/C won’t start on a day that’s expected to reach the upper 90s can be absolutely soul-crushing, and should be avoided at all costs.

Your A/C System Is Not Cooling Your Space Effectively

If your air conditioner hasn’t been performing as well as it used to, it might be time to give a licensed HVAC technician a call. There’s nothing worse than having the A/C on full blast but still not getting any relief from the heat.

Your A/C System Is Making Sounds

If you’ve recently begun to hear strange noises coming from your air conditioner, there’s a strong chance that something’s wrong. Cranking, hissing, grinding, squealing, screeching, or other disturbing sounds are all unwelcome and should be immediately fixed to prevent the problem from getting worse.

Extremely High Energy Bills

Unexpectedly high energy bills are indicative of an inefficient HVAC system, and in the summer months especially, the problem is usually with your air conditioner. It’s important to have an inefficient air conditioner diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible to avoid paying expensive bills in the future.

After diagnosing the problem with your A/C system, our professional HVAC repair contractor will walk you through their findings and what they believe to be the most effective solution. We’ll answer any questions that you might have about the repair process. Once we’re done, we’ll clean up after ourselves. You don’t have to suffer all summer long just because of a broken air conditioner. Give the air conditioner repair experts in Mountain House a call to schedule an A/C service as soon as possible.

Extending the life of your air conditioner is crucial for ensuring optimal performance and avoiding costly repairs or replacements. Here are some tips to help you maintain your AC unit:

  1. Regular Maintenance: Schedule annual maintenance with a qualified HVAC technician. They can inspect and clean your unit, identify any potential issues, and ensure everything is in working order.
  2. Change Air Filters: Replace air filters every 1-3 months, or as recommended by the manufacturer. Clean filters help maintain airflow and prevent strain on the system.
  3. Keep the Area Clean: Clear any debris, leaves, or obstructions around the outdoor unit to ensure proper airflow. Trim vegetation and bushes to allow for adequate ventilation.
  4. Check for Leaks: Inspect ductwork for leaks, as they can lead to energy loss and strain on the system. Seal any leaks promptly to improve efficiency.
  5. Control Humidity: Use a dehumidifier to reduce indoor humidity levels, as excessive moisture can strain the AC system and promote mold growth.
  6. Use a Programmable Thermostat: Set your thermostat to a higher temperature when you’re away to reduce strain on the system. Programmable thermostats can help you maintain optimal comfort while saving energy.
  7. Avoid Overworking the System: Avoid setting the thermostat to extremely low temperatures, as this can overwork the AC unit. Instead, aim for a comfortable temperature range.

By following these tips, you can prolong the life of your air conditioner and ensure efficient cooling for years to come.

Recognizing when it’s time to replace your air conditioner rather than continually repairing it is crucial for maintaining comfort and efficiency in your home. Here are some signs that indicate it may be time for a replacement:

  1. Frequent Breakdowns: If your air conditioner is constantly requiring repairs, it may be more cost-effective in the long run to invest in a new unit rather than continuing to patch up an aging system.
  2. Age of the Unit: Air conditioners typically have a lifespan of 10-15 years. If your unit is nearing or past this age range, it’s likely time to consider a replacement, as older units tend to become less efficient and more prone to breakdowns.
  3. Decreased Efficiency: If your energy bills are consistently increasing despite regular maintenance, it could indicate that your air conditioner is no longer operating efficiently. Newer models are often much more energy-efficient, saving you money on utility costs.
  4. Lack of Cool Air: If your air conditioner is struggling to cool your home effectively, even after repairs and maintenance, it may be a sign that the unit is no longer capable of meeting your cooling needs and should be replaced.
  5. Excessive Noise: Loud or unusual noises coming from your air conditioner could indicate mechanical issues that are beyond repair. A new unit will provide quieter operation and improved comfort.
  6. Refrigerant Leaks: If your air conditioner is leaking refrigerant, it can be costly to repair and may indicate underlying issues. In such cases, replacing the unit may be more economical and environmentally friendly.

By recognizing these signs and consulting with a qualified HVAC technician, you can determine whether it’s time to replace your air conditioner for better performance and efficiency.

If your air conditioning unit is blowing hot air instead of cool air, several potential issues could be at play:

  1. Thermostat Settings: Check that your thermostat is set to “cool” mode and the temperature is set lower than the current room temperature. Sometimes, incorrect thermostat settings can cause the AC to blow hot air.
  2. Dirty Air Filters: Clogged or dirty air filters restrict airflow, reducing the cooling capacity of your AC unit. Replace or clean the filters regularly to ensure proper airflow and cooling efficiency.
  3. Refrigerant Leak: A refrigerant leak can cause your AC to blow warm air. Low refrigerant levels prevent the system from effectively cooling the air. A professional HVAC technician can locate and repair the leak, then recharge the refrigerant to restore cooling performance.
  4. Faulty Compressor: The compressor is responsible for circulating refrigerant and cooling the air. If the compressor malfunctions or fails, the AC may blow hot air. Repairs or replacement of the compressor may be necessary.
  5. Electrical Issues: Faulty wiring, capacitor problems, or electrical component failures can also lead to hot air blowing from the AC unit. Professional inspection and repair of electrical components are essential to restore proper functionality.

If your air conditioning unit is blowing hot air, it’s best to contact a qualified HVAC technician to diagnose and address the underlying issue promptly. Delaying repairs could lead to further damage and higher repair costs.

air conditioning repair technician in Mountain House checks refrigerant levels

Air Conditioner Installation and Replacement

Whether you’re replacing an old air conditioner that has seen better days, or whether you’re installing an air conditioner for the first time, we’re happy to help.

For standard ducted and central air conditioning, it’s hard to go wrong with Trane. Their air conditioners offer an exceptional balance of performance, efficiency, reliability, and value. Their compressor sound insulators also allow units to be placed near windows or doors without causing a disturbance, giving you more installation options.

air conditioner ready to be installed in Mountain House, California
mitsubishi electric ductless mini-split and heat pump installation

Another great option is the Mitsubishi Electric ductless system. The indoor mini-splits work in tandem with small outdoor heat pumps to provide extremely efficient cooling with extremely customizable home environments.

With a ductless system, it’s easy to stop cooling to one room, set different rooms on different schedules, or apply different cooling rules to different rooms. These systems are the perfect choice if your upstairs gets too hot, or if you want to cool a garage or detached unit.

Learn more about Mitsubishi Electric ductless systems »

Quality Furnace Repair in Mountain House

Has your furnace been giving you grief lately? Our furnace technicians in Mountain House will quickly remedy your heating and air problems. We are experienced with virtually every brand of furnace, from Arcoaire and Bryant to Carrier and Night and Day, which means our furnace repair team can fix most heating issues within minutes.

Common Reasons Why People Call Our Heating Repair Team

  • Poor air flow
  • Blocked or dirty air filters
  • Bad smells
  • Poor energy efficiency
  • Slow start up times
  • Malfunctioning thermostat
  • Faulty pilot light
  • Faulty thermostat
  • Poor indoor air quality
  • Damaged ductwork
  • No routine maintenance plan

Because we encounter these issues so often, we are able to fix them with our eyes closed (well, almost!) We can also set you up with a regular maintenance plan to help prevent future more costly repairs, and to nip problems in the bud.

New Furnace Installation

Our first priority is always to save you money and preserve your current furnace, if possible. But if your furnace is fairly old, keeps causing problems, or just isn’t meeting your needs, we can also help you pick out a new furnace that will keep working for years to come. All of our new furnace installations are backed by generous parts and labor warranties, so you’ll be covered no matter what happens.

If you’re looking for an honest, reliable, and knowledgeable heating and cooling company in Mountain House, look no further than Irish Heating and Air.

Learn more about our furnace repair and installation services »

Arcoaire furnace ready for installation
Newly repaired gas furnace in Mountain House, California
Standard gas furnace in heating closet

Burners
Responsible for the combustion process, producing heat.

Pilot Light
Small flame that ignites the main burner.

Heat Exchanger
Transfers heat from combustion gases to the air.

Blower Motor
Circulates air through the furnace and into the living spaces.

Thermostat
Controls the temperature by regulating the furnace’s operation.

Gas Valve
Regulates the flow of gas into the burners.

Ignition System
Starts the combustion process by igniting the burners.

Limit Switch
Monitors the temperature inside the furnace and shuts off the burners if it gets too hot.

Flue Pipe
Allows the expulsion of combustion byproducts from the furnace.

Air Filter
Cleans the air before it enters the furnace, improving indoor air quality.

Ductwork
Channels heated air from the furnace to different areas of the home.

Pressure Switch
Ensures proper airflow by monitoring the pressure in the venting system.

Thermocouple
Safety device that detects the presence of a pilot flame.

Inducer Motor
Assists in the proper venting of combustion gases.

Draft Hood
Ensures the proper venting of combustion gases in atmospheric combustion furnaces.

Circuit Board/Control Board
Regulates and controls various furnace functions.

Sensors (Flame Sensor, Temperature Sensor)
Monitor different aspects of the furnace’s operation for safety and efficiency.

Transformers
Converts voltage to supply power to various components.

Pressure Relief Valve
Releases excess pressure in the furnace.

Understanding how your furnace works can help you troubleshoot issues, make informed decisions about maintenance, and appreciate the technology that keeps your home warm. Here’s a straightforward breakdown of the components and processes involved in heating your home with a furnace.

1. Furnace Types

Before diving into how a furnace works, it’s essential to know the common types of furnaces:

  • Gas Furnaces: Use natural gas or propane as fuel.
  • Electric Furnaces: Use electricity to generate heat.
  • Oil Furnaces: Burn oil to produce heat.

2. Basic Components of a Furnace

Most furnaces consist of several key components:

  • Thermostat: A device that senses the temperature in your home and communicates with the furnace to maintain your desired setting.
  • Burners: In gas furnaces, burners ignite the gas to produce heat. Electric furnaces use heating elements instead.
  • Heat Exchanger: Transfers heat generated by the burners to the air that circulates through your home.
  • Blower Motor: Moves air over the heat exchanger and distributes warm air through ductwork.
  • Ductwork: The system of pipes that carry heated air from the furnace to various rooms in your home.
  • Flue: A pipe that expels exhaust gases produced during the heating process.

3. The Heating Process

Here’s a step-by-step overview of how a typical furnace works:

Step 1: Thermostat Activation

When the temperature in your home drops below the setting on your thermostat, the thermostat sends a signal to the furnace to turn on.

Step 2: Ignition

  • Gas Furnaces: The gas valve opens, allowing natural gas or propane to flow to the burners. An ignitor (either a pilot light or electronic ignitor) ignites the gas.
  • Electric Furnaces: The thermostat sends electricity to the heating elements, which begin to glow and generate heat.

Step 3: Heat Generation

Once the burners are ignited or the heating elements are activated, the heat exchanger absorbs the heat produced.

Step 4: Air Circulation

The blower motor turns on and pushes air over the heat exchanger. As the air passes over the heated surface, it warms up.

Step 5: Distribution of Warm Air

The warm air travels through the ductwork and into different rooms of your home through vents or registers. This process continues until the desired temperature set on the thermostat is reached.

Step 6: System Shutdown

Once the thermostat detects that the temperature has reached the set point, it sends a signal to the furnace to shut down. The blower may continue to run for a short period to distribute any remaining warm air.

4. Safety Mechanisms

Furnaces are equipped with several safety features to ensure safe operation:

  • Limit Switch: Prevents the furnace from overheating by shutting off the burners if the temperature gets too high.
  • Flame Sensor: Detects whether the burners are lit. If a flame is not detected, it will shut off the gas supply to prevent gas leaks.
  • Ventilation Systems: Expel exhaust gases safely out of the home through the flue or venting system.

5. Importance of Maintenance

To ensure your furnace operates efficiently and safely, regular maintenance is essential. Here are some maintenance tips:

  • Change Air Filters: Replace filters every 1-3 months to maintain proper airflow and air quality.
  • Schedule Annual Inspections: Have a professional HVAC technician inspect and tune up your furnace each year to catch any potential issues early.
  • Clean Ductwork: Ensure that your ductwork is free from debris and blockages to allow for optimal airflow.

Short-cycling is a common issue that can affect the performance and efficiency of your furnace. If you notice that your furnace turns on and off frequently without reaching the desired temperature, it’s essential to understand the causes and potential solutions. Here’s a comprehensive guide on short-cycling, why it happens, and what you can do about it.

What is Short-Cycling?

Short-cycling occurs when a furnace turns on and off too frequently, often within a short time frame—typically less than 10 minutes. This can lead to several problems, including increased energy bills, reduced comfort levels, and premature wear and tear on your heating system.

Common Causes of Short-Cycling

  1. Thermostat Issues

    • A malfunctioning thermostat can send incorrect signals to the furnace, causing it to cycle on and off. This could be due to a faulty sensor, improper placement, or outdated technology.
  2. Oversized Furnace

    • If your furnace is too large for your home, it may heat the space too quickly and shut off before the system can distribute the heat evenly. This rapid heating and cooling can cause short-cycling.
  3. Dirty Air Filters

    • Clogged or dirty air filters restrict airflow, leading to overheating. When the furnace overheats, it may shut off to prevent damage, resulting in frequent cycling.
  4. Ductwork Issues

    • Blocked or poorly designed ductwork can hinder airflow, causing the furnace to overheat and cycle off. Leaks or obstructions in the ducts can also contribute to uneven heating.
  5. Flame Sensor Problems

    • A dirty or malfunctioning flame sensor can prevent the furnace from detecting that the burners are lit. If the sensor doesn’t detect a flame, the furnace will shut down to avoid a gas leak.
  6. Electrical Problems

    • Issues with the electrical system, such as faulty wiring or a malfunctioning control board, can cause the furnace to short-cycle.
  7. Safety Features Engaging

    • Many furnaces have safety features that shut down the system when they detect problems like overheating, ventilation issues, or blocked exhaust. If these features are triggered, your furnace may cycle on and off frequently.

Signs of Short-Cycling

  • The furnace turns on and off every few minutes.
  • Rooms in your home are unevenly heated.
  • The furnace seems to be working harder than usual.
  • You notice unusual noises coming from the furnace.
  • Increased energy bills without a change in usage.

Solutions for Short-Cycling

  1. Check the Thermostat

    • Ensure your thermostat is functioning correctly and is located away from drafts, heat sources, or direct sunlight. If it’s outdated, consider upgrading to a smart thermostat.
  2. Evaluate Furnace Size

    • Consult with an HVAC professional to determine if your furnace is appropriately sized for your home. If it’s oversized, you may need to consider replacing it with a more suitable unit.
  3. Replace or Clean Air Filters

    • Check your air filter regularly and replace it every 1-3 months to ensure proper airflow. A clean filter helps maintain the efficiency of your furnace.
  4. Inspect Ductwork

    • Look for any visible signs of damage or obstructions in your ductwork. Consider having a professional inspect and clean your ducts to ensure they are functioning correctly.
  5. Clean the Flame Sensor

    • If you suspect the flame sensor is dirty, you can clean it carefully with a soft cloth. If problems persist, consult a technician for replacement.
  6. Examine Electrical Components

    • If you suspect electrical issues, have a qualified technician inspect your furnace’s wiring and control board to ensure everything is functioning properly.
  7. Schedule Regular Maintenance

    • Regular HVAC maintenance can help identify and address potential issues before they lead to short-cycling. Schedule annual inspections and tune-ups to keep your system running smoothly.

When to Call a Professional

If you’ve tried troubleshooting the issue and your furnace continues to short-cycle, it’s time to call an HVAC professional. They can conduct a thorough inspection, diagnose the problem, and recommend the best course of action.

The heat exchanger is a crucial component of your furnace, responsible for transferring heat from the combustion process to the air that circulates throughout your home. A failing heat exchanger can lead to inefficient heating, increased energy bills, and potentially dangerous situations, such as carbon monoxide leaks. Here’s how to recognize the signs of a failing heat exchanger and what steps to take if you suspect an issue.

Common Signs of a Failing Heat Exchanger

  1. Increased Energy Bills

    • If you notice a sudden spike in your heating bills without any changes in usage, it could be a sign that your heat exchanger is struggling to transfer heat efficiently.
  2. Poor Heating Performance

    • Inconsistent or insufficient heating in your home can indicate that the heat exchanger isn’t functioning correctly. If some rooms are colder than others or the furnace is running longer than usual without reaching the set temperature, this may be a sign of a failing heat exchanger.
  3. Unusual Noises

    • Sounds like banging, popping, or rattling coming from the furnace can indicate issues with the heat exchanger. These noises may arise from the metal expanding and contracting as it heats up and cools down.
  4. Visible Cracks or Corrosion

    • If you can access the heat exchanger, inspect it for visible signs of damage, such as cracks, rust, or corrosion. These issues can significantly compromise its effectiveness and safety.
  5. Yellow or Flickering Burner Flame

    • A healthy burner flame should be blue. If the flame is yellow or flickering, this may indicate improper combustion, which could be related to a failing heat exchanger.
  6. Carbon Monoxide Detector Alerts

    • If your carbon monoxide detector goes off, it’s crucial to act immediately. A failing heat exchanger can allow harmful gases to escape into your home. Evacuate immediately and contact a professional.
  7. Frequent Furnace Cycling

    • If your furnace is cycling on and off more frequently than usual, it could indicate that the heat exchanger is overheating and shutting down to prevent damage.

What to Do if You Suspect a Failing Heat Exchanger

  1. Turn Off Your Furnace

    • If you suspect that your heat exchanger is failing, turn off your furnace immediately to prevent further damage or safety hazards.
  2. Check Your Carbon Monoxide Detectors

    • Ensure that your carbon monoxide detectors are functioning correctly and located throughout your home. If they go off, leave the premises immediately and call emergency services.
  3. Schedule a Professional Inspection

    • Contact a qualified HVAC technician to inspect your furnace and heat exchanger. They can perform a thorough examination and identify any issues. Professional inspections are essential since many problems may not be visible to the untrained eye.
  4. Consider Replacement Options

    • If your heat exchanger is confirmed to be failing, you may need to replace it or consider a new furnace. Discuss the options with your HVAC technician, who can help you determine the most cost-effective and efficient solution.
  5. Regular Maintenance

    • To prevent future issues, schedule regular maintenance for your heating system. Annual inspections can catch problems early, ensuring your furnace operates efficiently and safely.

I cannot thank Ryyan enough for coming out so quickly and fixing our AC unit for us! He was very quick to respond to our request, within less than 20 mins of submitting the request online he responded to me with an opening to come out the next day. We had called a couple other places who never even returned our call. He was incredibly polite and knowledgeable. Our unit is 20+ yrs old, and running on its last leg, so to speak, so he very easily could have lied and told us we needed a new unit, we would have 100% believed him. Instead, he fixed it and said he believes we will be able to get another 1-2 summers out of it. He has earned our loyalty, and we will definitely be using him when we replace our unit. Thank you so much!!

DMarie M., Read more

Our HVAC Repair & Installation Team Services Mountain House and Beyond

Are you looking to recommend our services to a friend or family member outside of Mountain House? That’s great! Lucky for you (and your friends), we offer our excellent services to other cities in the surrounding area. Never worry about who to call when you need quality A/C repair services in Mountain House or throughout San Joaquin and Stanislaus counties. Visit our service area page to learn more.

When you save our phone number to your contacts, Irish Heating and Air will always be there to assist you with your air conditioning and furnace needs. We’re ready to start helping you live more comfortably today.

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