How AC Contractors Can Help You Save Money

As energy costs rise, keeping your home comfortable with air conditioning can become a significant expense. Working with an experienced AC contractor is one of the best ways to ensure your system runs efficiently, reducing costs and helping you avoid expensive repairs. In this blog, we’ll explore the many ways a qualified AC contractor can help you save money on your air conditioning system, from lowering energy bills to extending the life of your equipment.

Prevent Costly Repairs With Regular Maintenance

One of the primary ways an AC contractor can help you save money is through regular maintenance. A well-maintained system not only runs more efficiently but also experiences fewer breakdowns. During routine maintenance, a contractor will check for issues that may not be immediately obvious but could lead to expensive repairs if left unattended. An AC contractor can prevent your system from overworking and wearing down prematurely by inspecting and cleaning components like filters, coils, and fins.

Regular maintenance can also help identify and resolve small issues before they turn into large, costly repairs. This proactive approach not only saves you from unexpected expenses but also ensures your system runs smoothly, reducing the likelihood of emergency service calls in the peak of summer.

Lower Energy Bills With Efficient Operation

An AC system that runs efficiently consumes less energy, directly lowering your utility bills. According to Brookings, approximately 70% of American homes have central AC, meaning most households are familiar with the rising costs of cooling during peak seasons. An experienced AC contractor knows how to optimize your system’s performance, keeping it running at peak efficiency.

Simple tasks like replacing air filters, calibrating thermostats, and cleaning condenser coils might seem minor but can make a significant difference in energy consumption. Additionally, a skilled AC contractor can recommend energy-efficient upgrades, such as programmable thermostats, zoned cooling, or insulation improvements that help reduce cooling costs. These enhancements help your AC system run more effectively, cutting down on electricity use without compromising comfort.

Get Help Choosing the Right System

When it comes to installing a new AC unit, selecting the right system for your home is essential for cost efficiency. If your current unit is outdated or too small (or large) for your home’s needs, it can drive up energy costs and lead to frequent repairs. An AC contractor has the expertise to assess your home’s cooling requirements and recommend a system that fits both your budget and energy needs.

Today’s energy-efficient AC units are designed to use less electricity while delivering the same level of cooling as older models. By working with an AC contractor who understands energy-efficient technology, you can make a wise investment that saves you money in the long run. Many contractors can also guide you toward rebates and incentives for upgrading to energy-efficient models, which can further offset installation costs.

Prolonging the Life of Your AC System

According to our experts, the lifespan of a typical air conditioning system is around 10 to 15 years. However, with proper care and maintenance from a qualified AC contractor, your system can often last much longer. Regular servicing helps your unit perform optimally, reducing the strain that wears down components and leads to breakdowns.

A well-maintained AC system not only saves you money on repairs but also delays the need for an expensive replacement. By investing in maintenance, you’re extending the useful life of your system, which can amount to significant long-term savings. When your AC contractor can help you get a few extra years from your current system, you have more time to save and plan for a future replacement, easing the financial burden.

Get Advice on Energy-Saving Habits

Sometimes, saving money on air conditioning is about making small changes in your daily habits. An AC contractor can offer practical advice on energy-saving techniques, such as using ceiling fans to circulate cool air, closing blinds during the hottest parts of the day, and setting the thermostat a few degrees higher when you’re not at home.

A contractor who understands energy efficiency can provide these helpful insights during maintenance visits, guiding you toward small changes that add up to big savings over time. This personalized advice is a valuable perk of working with a knowledgeable AC contractor, as these small tips can help you cut down on energy use without any additional cost.

When it comes to saving money on air conditioning, the right AC contractor can make a significant difference. Investing in professional guidance now pays off with comfort, efficiency, and savings that benefit you in both the short and long term. Contact Focus Heating & Cooling today.

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Big Changes Are Coming to Your Heating & Cooling System

By 7003135598 • August 28, 2025

At Focus Heating & Cooling, we want to keep you informed about important changes happening in the HVAC world. These changes affect what goes inside your air conditioner or heat pump to make it cool—the refrigerant. What’s Changing? Right now, most systems use a refrigerant called R-410A. But starting in 2025, this type will be phased out (discontinued) because it’s not great for the environment. Instead, a new refrigerant called R-454B will be used in new systems. It’s more environmentally friendly and helps reduce global warming. Is R-454B Safe? Yes! Even though R-454B is labeled as “mildly flammable,” it's very safe when used by trained professionals—like our team at Focus Heating & Cooling. We follow special safety rules and use the right tools to handle it properly. What Does This Mean for You? If You Already Have a System: You don’t need to replace it right away. But in the future, repairs might cost more as the old refrigerant becomes harder to find. If You’re Getting a New System: We will use the new, eco-friendly R-454B refrigerant. These systems are just as reliable—and better for the planet. Why the Switch Matters This change is part of a nationwide effort to reduce pollution and protect the environment. It’s like switching from plastic straws to paper ones—a small change that makes a big difference over time. How We Help At Focus Heating & Cooling, we’re here to: Explain the changes in plain, simple language Help you decide if it’s time for a new system or not Safely install new equipment that uses R-454B Keep your current system running smoothly as long as possible Have Questions? We’re Here for You! Call or text us at 503-563-8567 or visit us in Stayton, Oregon. Let’s keep your home comfortable—and eco-friendly!

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An air conditioner is sitting on the side of a house in the snow.

In Case of Frozen Heat Pump

By 7003135598 • January 17, 2025

If a heat pump is iced over, it's important to address the issue promptly to prevent damage and restore efficient operation. Here are the steps you should take: 1. Turn on your Emergency heat on thrermostat or turn the system completely off. 2. The unit will manually defrost when it is above freezing outside. You can also use warm water to speed up the process, but avoid using sharp objects to chip away the ice, as this will damage the coils. 3. Check Airflow: Ensure that there is adequate airflow around the outdoor unit. Clear any debris, leaves, or snow that may be obstructing the airflow. Restricted airflow can cause the unit to freeze over. 4. Use Emergency Heat: If the heat pump remains frozen and you need immediate heating, switch to the emergency heat setting. This will activate the auxiliary heat source and bypass the outdoor unit. Don’t Want to Do It Yourself? (You should call for service, This problem will not fix itself) Once the unit is thawed, this is a repair for professionals! Focus Heating & Cooling is here to help! We provide expert HVAC services on all major brands. Give us a call or text today to get one of our amazing technicians out to care for your heating needs. Your comfort is our Focus! Focus Heating & Cooling 📞 Call or Text Us Today: (503) 563-8567 Let us take care of your HVAC system, so you don’t have to! By following these steps, you can effectively address a frozen heat pump and restore its normal operation. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent future freezing issues.

A person is taking a filter out of a furnace.

How to Change A Filter

By 7003135598 • January 17, 2025

Changing a filter in a generic air conditioning system involves a few straightforward steps, regardless of the specific brand or model. Here's a general guide to help you through the process: 1. Turn Off at the Thermostat: Before starting, ensure the system is turned off to prevent any air circulation while you change the filter. 2. Locate the Filter: The filter is typically located at the return air duct at the furnace or inside the air handler unit. It may be behind a grille or access panel. Or install in the return grill in the house. 3. Remove the Old Filter: Open the grille or access panel and carefully slide out the old filter. Take note of the filter's size and the direction of airflow, which is usually indicated by arrows on the filter frame. 4. Select the Correct Replacement Filter: Ensure you have the correct size and type of replacement filter. Filters come in various sizes and thicknesses, so it's important to match the new filter to the old one. 5. Write the date on the filter for easy reference on your next filter change. 6. Install the New Filter: Insert the new filter into the slot, making sure the airflow arrows point in the correct direction, towards the air handler or blower. 7. Secure the Filter: Close the grille or access panel securely to ensure the filter stays in place and the system operates efficiently. 8. Turn the Thermostat Back On: Once the new filter is installed, turn the system back on and check for proper operation. Regularly changing the filter, typically every 1-2 months depending on usage and filter type, helps maintain system efficiency and indoor air quality. A 4 inch thick filter can last as long as 6 months. Don’t Want to Do It Yourself? While changing air filters is a straightforward process, some people prefer to leave it to the professionals. If you'd rather not handle it yourself, or if you'd like a complete HVAC maintenance check, Focus Heating & Cooling is here to help! We provide expert HVAC services, including air handler maintenance, to keep your system running smoothly. Give us a call or text today to schedule a filter replacement or full maintenance service! Let us take care of your HVAC system, so you don’t have to! By staying on top of filter changes and regular maintenance, you’ll help your air conditioning system run efficiently, keeping your home comfortable and your air clean year-round.