The HVAC industry is on the brink of a significant change, and homeowners need to be aware of the upcoming refrigerant shift. Starting January 1, 2025, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is phasing out R-410A refrigerant in favor of more environmentally friendly alternatives, including R-454B and R-32. This transition is part of a broader effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and limit global warming. At Chud Cooling & Heating, we’re here to help you understand how these changes may affect your HVAC system and what steps you can take to prepare.

Why Is R-410A Being Phased Out?

R-410A, widely used in air conditioners and heat pumps, has a high global warming potential (GWP). When released into the atmosphere, it contributes significantly to climate change. In contrast, the new refrigerants—R-454B and R-32—have much lower GWP, making them more eco-friendly. This refrigerant phase-out aligns with the EPA’s goal of reducing the environmental impact of HVAC systems.

Important Dates to Remember

Several key dates are associated with this refrigerant change, so it’s essential to plan accordingly:

• January 1, 2025: Any HVAC equipment manufactured after this date must use R-454B, R-32, or another approved low-GWP refrigerant. R-410A will no longer be used in new systems.
• January 1, 2026: Equipment made before 2025 using R-410A can still be installed during this one-year grace period, but after 2026, only systems using the new refrigerants will be eligible for installation.
• Window Units: Window air conditioners and other small systems that don’t require field assembly will be permitted for sale until January 1, 2028.

What Happens to Existing Systems?

If your current HVAC system uses R-410A or even the older R-22, you won’t need to replace it right away. These systems can continue operating as long as they are functional. However, it’s important to note that as the production of R-410A winds down, the refrigerant will become more expensive and harder to source. Repairs and maintenance may cost more, particularly if refrigerant replenishment is required.

For homeowners with older systems, it may be worth considering an upgrade to a system that uses newer, eco-friendly refrigerants to avoid higher costs down the line.

What Are the New Refrigerants?

R-454B and R-32, the refrigerants that will replace R-410A, belong to the A2L class, which is characterized by mild flammability. Despite this classification, these refrigerants are safe for residential use, meeting stringent safety standards. They also have a lower toxicity rating compared to older B-series refrigerants, offering an improved safety profile.

To help identify the new refrigerants, A2L cylinders will have a distinct appearance, featuring light green-gray coloring with red tops.

Cost Implications

Switching to HVAC systems that use R-454B or R-32 could increase upfront costs. It’s estimated that these new systems may cost $2,000 to $3,000 more than traditional R-410A models. However, the long-term savings on refrigerant replenishment, as well as the environmental benefits, make these systems a smart investment.

Preparing for the Change

The transition to eco-friendly refrigerants is necessary to protect our environment, but it also raises important considerations for homeowners. At Chud Cooling & Heating, we recommend planning ahead by assessing your current system’s efficiency and lifespan. If your air conditioner or heat pump is nearing the end of its useful life, upgrading to a system designed for the new refrigerants may save you money and reduce your carbon footprint.

Contact Chud Cooling & Heating Today

If you have questions about how the 2025 refrigerant change will affect your HVAC system, Chud Cooling & Heating is here to help. Our team of experts can guide you through your options, whether you’re considering a system upgrade or need maintenance for your existing unit.

Give us a call today to schedule a consultation. Let us help you stay ahead!

The last thing you want is a broken air conditioner on a hot day, and scheduling and paying for AC repair can seem tedious right at the moment. Still, repairing your air conditioner sooner rather than later could save you a lot of money later. Isn’t reducing the number of repairs overall and extending the life of your air conditioning system an incentive to schedule some professional help when your air conditioner needs it?

At Chud Cooling & Heating, we want to keep your air conditioner unit functioning for as long as possible. Our family-owned business strives to provide the best service and honest recommendations to every client we serve.

Here’s more about when to schedule a repair for your cooling system for the best outcomes.

The Best Time to Schedule AC Repair

The best time to schedule AC repair is as soon as you notice something is off with your system. Don’t let weird noises or lukewarm air persist. 

Typically, air conditioners will get worse when you let their symptoms linger. Your AC needs repair when:

• You hear noises you haven’t heard before, like rattling or banging.
• You smell burning or rotten smells when the air comes on.
• The air isn’t as cool as it usually is, or it blows out hot.
• The unit won’t stay on long enough to cool the house.

Many of these problems are due to leaking refrigerant, a failing compressor, or electrical issues. All of these problems will worsen over time if left unchecked.

Schedule Cooling Installations in the Off-Season

Air conditioners last 10 years, on average. You can squeeze longer out of them with excellent care, but no unit will last forever. Once your unit is at the end of its rope and you need to install a new one, be sure to schedule your HVAC contractor for the spring or fall.

HVAC technicians are busy with air conditioning emergencies all summer and, on the opposite end of the spectrum, servicing furnaces in the winter. Spring is often the best time for an air conditioning installation because of the open schedule. Fall is a good second choice.

It’s also best to schedule the installation long before you need the unit to work. You want to be ready for the summer.

Spring Is for AC Maintenance

How can you avoid frequent AC repair? Get annual maintenance in the spring and give the technician plenty of time to fit you into the schedule. These sessions give your air conditioner a thorough check, including:

• Cleaning.
• Troubleshooting.
• Replacing broken or worn-out parts.

Your technician will let you know if they need to repair or replace anything. That’s why spring maintenance prevents urgent AC repairs in the middle of summer when HVAC companies are at their busiest.

Call Chud Cooling & Heating for AC Repair

When you need AC repair, maintenance, or installation, call Chud Cooling & Heating. We’re family-owned and operated and have served our loyal customers for over 50 years. Rely on for honest recommendations and sustainable air conditioning options to keep you cool all summer.

Call (215) 659-4343 to schedule Chud Cooling & Heating’s air conditioner experts!

If you’ve been debating getting air conditioning service, it helps to know all the services that are included. Air conditioning service comes with more than just a simple check-up.

What does an air conditioning service include? Find out in this brief explanation by Chud Cooling & Heating.

Air Conditioning Services: What’s Included

There are many services included when you get a professional to check your air conditioner, including the following.

Thermostat Check

Since the thermostat is the brain of the operation of your HVAC system, professionals will check this part to ensure it works. Your HVAC tech will check the thermostat’s wiring and batteries, as well as how the unit responds to temperature settings and other inputs.

Dust Check

Nothing’s more dangerous to your AC than dust. When you schedule maintenance with a professional, they’ll check your air filter and other components, clearing them of dust so they can function properly.

Electrical Connection Check

Everything from your blower motor to your condenser relies on electrical connections. Your HVAC professional will check the capacitors and all connections to ensure everything is working suitably.

Condenser/Evaporator Coil Check

Your condenser and evaporator coils are responsible for ensuring your compressor can produce cool air. Your professional will check these to make sure they aren’t frozen, overheating, in need of repairs, or covered in dust.

Airflow Test

Your air conditioner is only as good as the airflow it can provide. Even if you have the most powerful AC on the market, it doesn’t matter much if your blower motor and vents are shot. During a maintenance test, your professional will ensure that all airflow paths are clear so nothing overheats.

Safety Check

A malfunctioning AC can be dangerous, which is why HVAC pros take safety checks very seriously. During this step, your technician will conduct checks on all electrical components. They’ll also remove all dust from the system and clean or replace the air filter if necessary.

Refrigerant Check

Without refrigerant, your air conditioner is nothing more than a fan. If you have low refrigerant, there may be a leak; your technician will refill the compressor and check for the source of the issue.

Condensate Drain Line Check

If you have a malfunctioning condensate line, you’ll notice the water pooling underneath your unit. During air conditioning service, your professional will check to ensure your drain line is working so that you don’t have to deal with water damage later. 

Work With Chud Cooling & Heating

Now that you know about what’s involved in air conditioning service, why not schedule services from Chud Cooling & Heating? We’re capable of performing routine maintenance for your air conditioning unit, and if you want an upgrade, we’ll help you pick the best model for your home.

Whether you need an air filter replacement or are considering AC installation, Chud Cooling & Heating is the place to go for all of your HVAC needs. To call us for a consultation, reach out at 215-659-4343.

If you’re planning to install a new AC unit, then you most certainly have a few thoughts going through your head. How can you choose the right system? Which HVAC installation company will you use?

An even more common question is, “Should I replace ductwork when replacing my AC?” We’ll cover all the details you need to know in this post.

Replacing Your Ductwork During AC Replacement Is Not Compulsory

If you’re already running the numbers and wondering if you truly need to replace your ductwork while getting a new air conditioner, pump the brakes. You don’t have to replace your ductwork when installing your new air conditioner.

Robust duct systems can last up to 30 years or more.  Air conditioners need replacing within 15 years. So, there’s a high probability that your ductwork can still serve you for another decade or more after your AC replacement.

Signs You Need to Replace Your Ductwork While Replacing Your Air Conditioner

You’ll need to include the cost of new ductwork in your calculations if any of the following applies in your situation.

Your Ductwork Is Already Too Old

Is your ductwork two or three decades old? Maybe you don’t even know when it was installed. In that case, you’ll likely need to replace it as well. Newer air conditioning systems are significantly different from older units from one or two decades ago. The ductwork requirements for both will reflect these differences.

An old, worn-out ductwork system may affect the performance and longevity of your new unit. Therefore, most HVAC technicians will recommend replacing everything at once.

Your Ductwork Is Too Big or Too Small

If you’re wondering, “Should I replace ductwork when replacing my AC?” you should ask yourself if the ductwork is the right size for the air conditioning unit you’re considering. In most cases, that’s a decision you’ll have to leave to experienced technicians who understand HVAC system sizing better than you do.

If the ductwork is the wrong size, you’ve handicapped your new air conditioner. Therefore, it’s more cost-effective to replace the ductwork instead.  

You Have Damaged or Corroded Ductwork

Even when the ductwork is still relatively new, it may have sustained some damage over the years. In that case, you may be better off replacing it while changing your air conditioning unit. Leaky or damaged ductwork could mean:

• Mold and bacteria growth
• Noisy AC operation
• Cold spots instead of more even cooling
• Higher energy bills

Your Ductwork Has Major Structural Issues

If your old ductwork was poorly designed, now is a good time to install a new system that’s the perfect fit for every part of your home.  Using poorly installed ductwork with your new AC could mean losing a significant chunk of any conditioned air.

What Is the Alternative to Ductwork Replacement?

The alternative to ductwork replacement is to clean the existing setup and fix any damages. However, repairs aren’t always cost-effective.

Get Expert Guidance From Your Local Experts

Are you still wondering, “Should I replace ductwork when replacing my AC?” Call Chud Cooling & Heating in Abington, PA, today at 215-659-4343 for personalized guidance. Let us help!

The first modern air conditioning system emerged more than a century ago. This cooling system worked effectively, but it also generated lots of noise.

Over time, air conditioner manufacturers worked on quieting AC systems down. The average AC unit only generates about 30 decibels today because of this.

However, there may be times when the HVAC system in your home is noisier than usual. Listen to what it’s trying to tell you to determine whether or not something might be wrong.

Find out more about the noises that AC systems make and discover what they might mean.

Identifying Common AC Noises

Under normal circumstances, the AC system in your home should give you the ability to perform climate control without producing too much noise. After it has been running for a few minutes, the noise it makes should blend into the background and go unnoticed.

The only time you’ll need to worry is when you hear your home’s AC system make noises that are out of the ordinary. Here are several noises that should cause you to raise an eyebrow:

• Buzzing or humming
• Rattling or banging
• Clicking
• Hissing
• Squealing or grinding

These are the kinds of sounds you won’t want to hear your AC system make. They may indicate a need for AC repairs.

Understanding the Causes of AC Noises

If you ever hear your home’s AC system making any sounds, you may begin to panic. The good news is that these sounds might tell you exactly what’s wrong with your system.

Next, let’s take a look at what each of the common AC noises can mean.

Why Is My AC Buzzing or Humming?

If you ever find that your AC system is making a buzzing or humming noise, there could be any number of things causing it. Some problems that can lead to an AC system buzzing or humming are:

• Loose or worn-out parts
• Electrical issues
• Debris stuck in the outdoor portion of the system

Simply replacing a part in your AC system or cleaning up the outside of it can work wonders for this particular problem. However, since several issues can cause buzzing or humming, you may need to call in the pros to diagnose the problem.

Why Is My AC Rattling or Banging?

If you hear a rattling or banging noise when you fire up your home’s AC system, it may alarm you. This is one of the loudest sounds that can come from a cooling system.

In this case, you might have one of these problems on your hands:

• Loose fan blade
• Loose motor mount
• Debris trapped in the system

You may not be able to ignore rattling or banging noises emanating from your air conditioner for long. Seek assistance from a licensed HVAC technician who can diagnose the issue and correct it.

Why Is My AC Clicking?

If you have a clicking noise coming from your home’s AC system, it’s often a surefire sign there is an electrical problem. An electrical relay within your system may have failed.

Clicking sounds coming from an AC system can also suggest something might be wrong with its capacitor. A capacitor is responsible for sending power to an AC system’s motor, so you’ll need to remedy this situation quickly to ensure your AC system continues to start.

Why Is My AC Hissing?

If you hear a hissing sound stemming from your home’s AC system, it might mean you have a refrigerant leak. This is one of the hardest AC noises to hear, but thankfully, it won’t be the only sign that refrigerant may be leaking from your system.

A refrigerant leak in your AC system may also stop your system from cooling your home when you turn it on. If this is happening, get in touch with an HVAC system repair company right away to schedule an inspection and repair.

Why Is My AC Squealing or Grinding?

If your home’s AC system is squealing or grinding, it can be almost as annoying as hearing it rattling or banging. You might find it impossible to relax at home with your AC system making this much noise.

A squealing or grinding sound coming from your AC system can mean:

• Broken or loose belt
• Misaligned pulley
• Worn-out motor bearing

Don’t delay calling an AC system repair service to assist you. The squealing and grinding you’re hearing might only get worse if you don’t do anything about it.

When To Take Action and Address AC Noises

Springing into action immediately when you hear your home’s AC system making strange sounds can help you mitigate the problem before it worsens. Check out the steps you should take as soon as you hear them:

1. Investigate the potential sources of your AC noises.
2. Consider shutting off your AC system to avoid further issues.
3. Get in touch with an AC repair company and schedule an appointment.

Ignoring AC noises and putting off necessary repairs can cause further damage to your system and possibly even necessitate expensive AC repairs down the line.

The Importance of Seeking a Professional Diagnosis and Repair for a Noisy AC

After hearing what can cause certain AC noises, you may mull over taking the DIY approach to making AC repairs. These are the dangers that can come along with doing this:

• Additional damage done to your AC system
• Reduced efficiency from your AC system
• Premature AC system failure

Instead, allow an experienced HVAC technician to work on your AC system. They can identify why your AC system is making sounds and come up with a solution to fix it.

Let Us Look at Your Home’s Noisy AC System

When you live in your home long enough, you’ll eventually hear sounds you don’t recognize coming from your AC system. Knowing what could be causing them can help you identify what might be the problem with it.

Chud Cooling & Heating can step in and tackle AC repairs if the sounds you’re hearing indicate an issue. Touch base with us at 215-659-4343 to make an appointment in Abington, PA.

Stepping into a comfortably cool home on a sweltering day offers an unmistakable sense of relief, a luxury often taken for granted until unexpected failures occur. Regular AC maintenance plays a pivotal role in ensuring this uninterrupted comfort, simultaneously extending the lifespan of the unit and optimizing its efficiency.

Not only does proactive care mitigate the likelihood of costly repairs, but it also enhances the quality of indoor air, contributing to a healthier living environment.

Discovering the Benefits of Regular AC Maintenance

Stepping into the heart of our discussion on AC maintenance, embracing regular service schedules unlocks a cascade of benefits, pivotal among them being a notable extension in your cooling system’s life span and a boost in its energy efficiency and performance.

Experiencing the cool comfort of an efficiently running AC unit, while also savoring the prospects of delayed replacement costs, instills a sense of proactive stewardship towards our environment.

This approach not only aligns with sustainable living practices but also fortifies the mechanical integrity of our cooling systems, ensuring they serve us diligently for years to come.

Extending Your AC Unit’s Life Expectancy

By engaging with a seasoned technician who undertakes a meticulous examination of your system, you’re not just investing in a routine service; you’re entrusting your home’s comfort to expert hands determined to nip potential issues in the bud. This dedication to care does more than just extend the life of your AC; it transforms your cooling system into a resilient ally, adept at weathering the ravages of time and use with grace. In turn, this longevity ensures that the comfort of your home remains uninterrupted, season after season.

Enhancing Energy Efficiency and Performance

Regular AC maintenance plays a pivotal role in bolstering the energy efficiency of your cooling system. Keeping every component in a prime working condition not only slashes your monthly utility bills but also enhances the overall performance of your unit, ensuring it runs smoothly and efficiently. This meticulous attention to detail guarantees that energy consumption remains at an optimal level, preventing unnecessary strain and extending the system’s effective operation.

The process involves a thorough cleaning of air filters, coils, and fins, alongside checks for any potential issues that could hinder performance. This proactive strategy ensures that the air conditioner functions at its peak, providing consistent, reliable cooling without the frequent on-and-off cycling that can drive up energy costs and degrade the system prematurely.

How to Choose the Right AC Maintenance Plan for Your Home

Choosing the right AC maintenance plan requires a discerning eye.

It’s not just about finding a service package; it’s about discovering a partnership that aligns with your home’s specific needs.

Varied plans come with an array of features, from basic check-ups to comprehensive inspections covering every nook and cranny of your unit. Understanding the nuances of a good maintenance plan acts as a cornerstone in not only safeguarding your investment but also in ensuring your living space remains a haven of comfort and reliability.

Recognizing Signs Your AC Needs Immediate Attention

Navigating the landscape of air conditioning maintenance, it’s critical to acknowledge the symptoms signaling a call for help isn’t far off. Identifying common symptoms of a malfunctioning unit and understanding the precise moment to bring in a professional can circumvent a minor issue blossoming into a catastrophic failure.

This emphasis on vigilance is not about nurturing paranoia but fostering a sense of responsibility toward maintaining the seamless operation of our cooling systems.

Identifying Common Symptoms of a Malfunctioning Unit

An AC that struggles to maintain the set temperature, oscillating between too warm and too cool, hints at underlying issues begging for expert evaluation. This not only impacts comfort but also raises the risk of a complete system failure if left unchecked.

Seasonal Tips for Keeping Your Air Conditioner Healthy

Transitioning through the seasons brings about distinct challenges for our air conditioning systems, each vying for attention to maintain peak performance. With the arrival of spring, we at Chud often counsel homeowners to embark on a thorough cleaning spree, targeting their AC units to clear out any debris accumulated over the winter months. This simple act of care ensures the system breathes easier and functions with renewed vigor as temperatures begin to climb.

As summer will usher in its sweltering heat, Chud emphasizes the importance of checking refrigerant levels and ensuring your AC’s cooling efficiency isn’t compromised. 

Contact Chud Cooling and Heating Today! 

Regular AC maintenance plans are crucial for ensuring that your air conditioning system operates efficiently, lasts longer, and saves you money.

Consistent servicing not only prevents premature wear and tear but also enhances the unit’s energy efficiency and performance, leading to significant reductions in utility bills.

By choosing a maintenance plan with Chud Cooling and Heating that suits your specific needs and includes comprehensive inspections, you invest in the longevity and reliability of your AC, avoiding costly emergency repairs and extending its life expectancy.

Short cycling is a common problem. It can cause your air conditioning unit to operate inefficiently and struggle to keep your home cool. That means you may experience sky-high utility bills and a house that is unbearably hot. Your A/C unit may also wear out and need to be replaced soon, which can be costly. If you experience short cycling, contact the Northampton A/C professionals at Chud Air Conditioning, Heating, & Duct Cleaning right away.

What Is Short Cycling?

An air conditioner that is working properly powers up the compressor and continues to run until the house reaches the desired temperature. When an air conditioner is short cycling, the unit gets stuck in a startup cycle. The compressor shuts off early, before the house has cooled off. An A/C uses the most energy when the compressor starts. When the compressor keeps starting over and over, it uses a lot more energy than it should.

Short cycling can also cause the compressor to overheat. It may eventually burn out and have to be replaced, which can be expensive. It often makes more financial sense to replace an entire A/C unit than to install a new compressor.

Short cycling can have several causes. Sometimes it’s something as simple as a dirty filter, and other times it’s an air or refrigerant leak. There may also be a problem with the thermostat. Or, the air conditioning unit may be the wrong size for the house.

Call a Northampton A/C Contractor for Help with Short Cycling

If your air conditioner is short cycling, it’s important to contact a professional immediately. Ignoring the problem will allow it to get worse. Not only will you have to suffer with hot conditions indoors, but you may also have to pay exorbitant energy bills. Allowing your A/C to continue short cycling can lead to serious damage. You may even have to replace the entire system.

A technician from Chud Air Conditioning, Heating, & Duct Cleaning can figure out what is causing your A/C to short cycle. Our professional team can make repairs to take care of the problem. Call (215) 659-4343 to schedule an inspection.

Having your heater fail on a cold winter day can lead to a catastrophe. Your family may be forced to contend with bone-chilling temperatures, and burst pipes may cause serious water damage to your house, furniture, flooring, and electronics. A malfunctioning air conditioner can make life unbearable in the summer. Extreme indoor heat can even endanger the health of your family and pets. If you need help with heating and air maintenance or repair, call Chud Cooling & Heating.

How We Can Keep Your Heater up and Running

Your heating system needs routine maintenance to work efficiently. Replacing the filter regularly and conducting periodic inspections can prevent many common problems.

If you do experience an issue, such as a malfunctioning thermostat, frequent cycling, or loud noises, we can send a technician to your home to diagnose the cause and make repairs. Our team can service any type of furnace and can also address issues related to a malfunctioning water heater.

How Chud Can Help Keep Your Home Cool in the Summer

Even though it’s cold out now, summer will be here before you know it. Now is a good time to begin thinking about getting your air conditioner ready for the warmer months ahead. A technician can inspect your A/C, perform routine maintenance, and make any needed repairs so the system will work when you need it.

If the A/C breaks down in the summer, we can send someone to your house to figure out what’s wrong and fix it. A technician can address a variety of issues, such as a refrigerant leak, a frozen evaporator coil, a defective compressor, or a seized fan motor. Read our reviews and find out about why you can trust to take care of your heating and cooling system!

Contact Chud for Heating and Air Maintenance and Repair

Taking care of your heater and air conditioner can help you avoid breakdowns and expensive repair bills. Chud can work to keep your HVAC system operating efficiently. We’re also available around the clock to help if you experience a problem. If your heater or air conditioner is due for routine service or in need of repair, call so we can send a technician to your home to assist you.