As a homeowner, proactive maintenance is a vital part of keeping your home in tip-top shape! However, sometimes you may experience air duct issues or need air duct repair by a professional. If you notice your HVAC system is not running as efficiently as it used to, here are just some of the common air duct problems homeowners commonly face and how to prevent air duct problems in the future. 1. Dirty Air Ducts Not only do air ducts circulate warm or cool air through your home, but they also collect dust, germs, pet hair, and other contaminants. Over time, your air ducts will be lined with these contaminants, making it harder for air to flow and provide the heating or cooling you need. This is one of the most common air duct problems, but it is easy to prevent if you regularly have your air ducts cleaned. Clean air ducts improve indoor air quality, reduce odor due to contaminant build-up, and increase your HVAC efficiency, all of which are beneficial to you and your family! 2. Leaking Duct Work Just as your air ducts need to be cleaned, they also need to be checked for leaks. Air ducts can become loose or disconnected for a variety of reasons, including inadequate fastening or simply damage from age and use. When your air ducts leak, some of the air that is supposed to come from your vents escapes before it should. Ultimately, this causes your HVAC system to run inefficiently and increases your utility bill! The best way to prevent this problem is to work with a trusted HVAC specialist that will properly install, seal, and inspect your air ducts. 3. Improper Air Duct Design Ductwork in your home cannot always be seen, so you may not know how the layout or design of your air ducts is set up. If purchasing a home, make sure you are always getting a qualified individual to inspect all elements of the space, including your air ducts. If you are already a homeowner and notice your HVAC system is running poorly, start by checking your attic or basement for any obvious problems, as previous homeowners may have attempted DIY methods to fix issues. If you have concerns at any point, we encourage you to call us at AJM Mechanical for your air duct repair needs. Contact an Air Duct Specialist in Philadelphia Today! Whether it is a simple fix by needing your air ducts cleaned or your air duct system needs to be replaced due to its age, the more proactive you are, the better it is for your home (and wallet). At AJM Mechanical, we provide expert air duct repair in Philadelphia and surrounding areas like Northeast Philly, Bucks County, and Montgomery County. Call us today for expert ductwork inspection, sealing, and repair services. Improve your HVAC efficiency and indoor air quality now !

The summer months can be a delightful time, especially for those who enjoy soaking up the rays on a lazy Sunday afternoon. But, for those who find the heat to be a tad challenging, an AC unit is a blessing. Yet, if you’re concerned about the overall performance of your HVAC system, it may be time to call in a professional for some expert advice. There Could Be a Leak in Your AC Unit A major issue with AC units is that they have a tendency to leak if they are not properly cared for. This is usually caused by a clogged condensation drain line, but could also be tied to a damaged drain pan or a frozen evaporator coil. Regardless of the cause, it’s vital that customers get this problem fixed early on so that they can avoid the risk of an AC system failure. Clogged Air Filters Air filters help to trap small particles of debris like pollen and dust to stop them from entering the AC system. But over time, these filters can become dirty and run down, causing them to become clogged. These filters are easy enough to replace, so customers don’t have to worry about paying out for an entire AC replacement. However, in order to keep on top of things, customers are advised to schedule annual maintenance checks so that they can keep on top of their AC repair schedule and prolong its life. Key Internal Parts Could Be Damaged An AC unit may just seem like a huge box that puffs cold air, but in fact, it’s a very complex piece of machinery. If a key piece, such as a blower motor or a compressor, is not working as it should, then the entire machine could go into AC system failure. In some extreme cases, your AC could stop working out of the blue, making it in need of dire AC repair. Luckily, a lot of contractors offer a 24/7 Emergency Service line so that customers can receive help day or night. The Unit Could Be Outdated While the average AC unit tends to last 10 to 15 years, certain problems can decrease its overall lifespan. Plus, with new HVAC technology developing every day, an AC unit can become outdated very quickly. So, for customers who have had their unit for many years and are looking for a change, it may be time for an AC replacement. Again, many local contractors can help you to select the right unit for you and your budget. Schedule an AC Repair in Philadelphia Today! For a lot of people, AC units are a lifesaver, and when these machines start to fail, it can be extremely worrying. However, with the right help, customers can ensure that their unit remains in working condition for many years to come. Contact us to schedule an AC repair at AJM Mechanical today!

Water heaters are one of the most common household appliances, but choosing the right one for your home can be tricky. When most people think of water heaters, they associate them with traditional ones. However, tankless water heaters are also an effective, energy-efficient solution. Here are some things you should consider when choosing the best type of water heater for your home. How They Work The biggest difference between these two types of water heaters is the way that they work. While a traditional water heater stores and continuously heats water, a tankless one heats water on demand. This means that traditional units tend to use more energy to keep your hot water supply hot until you use it. The Pros Traditional Water Heaters Traditional water heaters are an excellent choice for large homes with multiple bathrooms and high demand for hot water throughout the day. These units work by pushing cold water from your plumbing system into the water heater where it is heated and then to the faucet. Another upside is that your hot water is generally immediately available when you turn the faucet on. Also, installation tends to be lower than it would be for a tankless water heater. Tankless Water Heaters Tankless water heaters take up less space and are more energy efficient. They tend to require less maintenance and aren’t as bulky as traditional units. Since they heat water on demand, they also offer an unlimited supply of hot water. The Cons Traditional Water Heaters One of the biggest drawbacks of traditional water heaters is that they offer a limited supply of water. It also takes time to heat and refill a new supply of hot water, which consumes more energy to keep your hot water supply hot until you are ready to use it. Tankless Water Heaters While tankless water heaters are an efficient solution, they come with higher installation fees because the process is much more involved. While they are able to provide unlimited hot water, it sometimes takes your water time to reach the faucet as it’s being heated. Things to Consider When you’re choosing between traditional and tankless water heaters, there are some important factors to consider. Here are things to remember when choosing between the two: Your Home’s Size Your Hot Water Consumption Needs Installation Costs Existing Plumbing System Seek the Help of a Professional Plumber A professional plumber will be able to help you choose between the two. They will walk you through your options and determine which makes the most sense for your needs. Additionally, they will be able to answer any questions that you may have to make the process easy and stress-free. Contact AJM Mechanical for Water Heater Services From water heater repair to tankless water heater installation, AJM Mechanical is your one-stop shop for plumbing services. Whatever your needs may be, we guarantee that we will help you determine the best course of action. Contact us to schedule an appointment today!

Are you having trouble making your finished basement, garage, attic space, or other areas of your home comfortable? Are you tired of the maintenance involved with window unit air conditioners? If you answered yes, then a ductless mini split air conditioner may be the answer.  There are 2 main components to a ductless mini split air conditioner, an outdoor compressor and an indoor condenser with an air handling unit. It involves no duct work, instead a few small holes are drilled to connect the electrical wires and refrigerant tubes to the two units. Energy Efficiency Ductless mini split air conditioners use less energy than traditional window units and central air, so you’ll save on utility bills while helping the environment at the same time. Improved Air Quality Since mini split air conditioners don’t use ducts, there is no chance of dust and other allergens building up and making their way into your home. These units can be especially helpful for people who suffer from asthma, allergies, and other respiratory problems. Zone Control Mini split units allow you to control the temperature in individual rooms. So if one member of your family prefers an arctic blast in their bedroom, and you need the living room or kitchen a bit warmer, everyone can be happy and comfortable. Easy to Install Ductless mini split air conditioning units don’t require any major renovations or messy duct installation. It’s relatively quick and won’t disrupt your day-to-day activities. Quiet Operation Mini split units can be kept at a low speed which, on the whole, is more quiet than traditional air conditioning systems. So say goodbye to clunking compressors kicking on and off, the banging and squeaking that outdated units can bring, and say hello to peace and tranquility. Versatility One of the best parts of a ductless mini split air conditioning unit is its versatility. While they can easily be mounted on any wall, if you don’t like that aesthetic, they can also be placed on the ceiling or on the floor. You can choose to conceal the unit behind an attractive piece of furniture, in the corner of the room, or wherever you prefer. Contact AJM Mechanical Today! Whatever the issue, AJM Mechanical has a solution for you. Whether you need emergency services for your HVAC system or are in the market for a new ductless mini split air conditioning unit, we are here to help. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!

Water heaters give off multiple signs before they end up breaking. As a homeowner, you’ll want to ensure that you won’t be without a water heater, especially because purchasing a new one is a costly endeavor. That said, seven signs can help you notice if your water heater is nearing its end. Age of Unit The average water heater is designed to last anywhere from 8 to 15 years, depending on the type. A gas water heater has an average lifespan of 8–12 years, while an electric one can last up to 10–15 years. To determine how old your water heater is, you need to check the manufacturer’s label and/or the serial number. Discoloration Another common sign that can help you tell if your water heater is about to give out is water discoloration. This usually indicates that there is a faulty anode rod or the tank is corroded. Either way, sediment builds up in the tank due to this and ends up causing the unit to fail over time. However, an electric tankless water heater may be more difficult to detect due to the lack of corrosion. Strange Noises Strange noises such as gurgling or popping can indicate that there are internal issues with a tankless hot water heater. If the noises persist even after repairs, then it’s likely the unit will give out. Rust One way to determine the unit’s corroding is by the taste or color of the water. Water that is murky or discolored can be a telltale sign that your unit is not doing well. In addition, rusty water indicates that the unit is corroding from the inside. Repairs A sign of a water heater on its last leg needs constant repairs. This can either indicate that the unit is breaking down internally or that it just needs to be replaced. Sometimes repairs are more expensive than replacing the unit. Newer units are also designed to be better, so making the switch might be necessary. Water Temperature Issues Another common sign of a tankless gas water heater that’s about to break down is the temperature of the water. If you can’t get any hot or warm water, then that’s a sign that there is a big issue. Failing to heat water is a sign that the unit is worn down internally. Energy Bill Spikes As an electric tankless water heater breaks down, there will be spikes in your energy bill. That is because the unit will need more energy to power the device. If you’ve noticed a consistent spike in your energy bill, and no other changes have been made, then checking your tankless water heater is necessary. Contact AJM Mechanical HVAC today! Water heaters are designed to last a relatively long time, but units do end up failing. If you don’t want to be stuck with having to replace at one last minute, then it’s best to be able to deduce signs before it happens. Whatever the issue may be, our team is on hand and ready to help. Contact us today to schedule your water heater maintenance or repair!

Unsure whether you need a boiler or a furnace? While these units might both produce heat, they do so in different ways. Choosing between the two comes down to a few fundamentals, and understanding them will help you determine which is best for your specific situation. Boiler vs. Furnace Boilers heat water, which circulates through a radiator or a heating system under the floor. The heat provided is radiant heat which warms people and objects directly. This creates a consistent temperature throughout a home. Furnaces use vents which distribute heat within a home quickly but may lead to temperatures which fluctuate when the home’s insulation isn’t maintained. Circumstances Boilers are less noisy and more suitable for a large home, which may echo. They also improve air quality because they circulate less dust. So, if you are prone to allergies, a boiler could be the better option. Furnaces are easier and less expensive to install but require more monthly maintenance. Local Climate A boiler is the better option if you live in a place that’s cold throughout the year when consistency in heating is important. In this case, a boiler is more efficient than a furnace. On the other hand, if you live in a place where the climate changes during the year, where winters are fairly short, then you may want to consider a heating unit that works faster. A furnace offers quicker heat distribution, which may be beneficial in smaller homes but also in homes where winter is mild. A boiler is better in a dry climate because furnaces tend to dry out the air and produce poorer air quality unless properly maintained. System Components Water leaks are common and because of this, boilers may need gasket replacements, or even more involved repairs if there are cracks to fix. Low water pressure might require a new pressure release valve. If the boiler uses gas, then the electronic ignition system might need repair. Finally, the pump may become noisy and need to be repaired or replaced altogether. The cost of boiler repair may become high and certain parts more expensive. Understanding Safety Hazards Similar to boilers, electronic issues with the furnace pilot light or ignition may need repair. The motor blower can become worn and need to be replaced. Cracks in the heat exchanger are particularly dangerous as they are a risk for carbon monoxide leaks. This would require immediate attention, which also requires a budget that is ready for this. If the thermostat breaks, then the entire system can malfunction. Air filters that aren’t properly cleaned or maintained can become clogged with debris and dust particles, making airflow less efficient. Overall Cost  When it comes to differences in cost, furnace repair is generally less expensive if the furnace is well maintained throughout the year. Yearly maintenance includes regular cleaning and monthly filter replacement as well as ensuring all the parts are functioning correctly. Boilers could be more costly for general heating replacement or repair. Learn More About AJM Mechanical’s Boiler and Furnace Services Let us help you choose which unit is the best for you! Contact AJM Mechanical, where our trustworthy team will take the time to understand what you’re looking for and help you determine what will work best for your home.