Clark Heat and Cool is a Phoenix, Arizona based HVAC specialty service company and this blog is to help keep their client, and prospective clients, up to date with changes in the HVAC industry.
Thanks to technology, it is possible to monitor your home's climate control system right from your smartphone! There are several climate control apps which can be linked to your home's thermostat, allowing for easy, remote access to the thermostat. These apps make it possible to lower the air conditioner's temperature when you start your evening commute, meaning you can walk into an already-cooled home. Or, if you are lying in bed on a winter's evening and feel a bit chilly, you can turn on the heat setting, without leaving the comfort of your bed. So how exactly do these apps work, and which types are best?
In our opinion, you can't go wrong with a climate control app created by Honeywell. This company manufactures some of our favorite types of thermostats. We would like to highlight the Total Connect Comfort app, which is free for iOs and Android. This app can be used for about five of Honeywell's most common wireless thermostats. In order to use a remote climate control app-your thermostat must be wirelessly connected to your home's internet.
The Total Connect Comfort app is incredibly useful, as it can be installed on your smartphone or tablet, then password protected. If your child plays on your phone, he won't accidentally set the thermostat to sixty degrees in the summer and run up the electricity bill! The screens are very clear and easy to use, showing up and down arrows for adjusting the temperature. It also provides a five day weather forecast, so you can adjust the temperature in your home as needed, even while on vacation. Not only does this app let you remotely control your home's thermostat, it can help you find a licensed HVAC contractor in your neighborhood if something breaks down. While we have noticed that this app sometimes has "connectivity issues," this is the type we use in our homes due to its ease of use and installation. Also, did we mention it's free?!
One of the other free apps currently offered is called "Honeywell Lyric," and can basically be described as the "nest" version of an app. (If you need more information on the nest thermostat, see our previous blog explaining thermostat types). You can program the app to a set temperature when you are at home, and to another temperature when you are away. Lyric uses your smartphone location to make temperature adjustments as needed. This is very convenient! Imagine, turning into your driveway after work and having the thermostat flip on. As always with technology, yes, this app tracks your location. It's best to read all the information and check out the reviews before installing apps on your phone or tablet, just to ensure the app is the right one for you.
If you are interested in being able to remotely control your thermostat, but don't have a wireless thermostat, please give us a call. We will be happy to install a new thermostat, and show you which app is compatible!
Approximately 3 weeks ago, I had a Heating/Air Conditioning tech come to my residence to conduct the annual inspection of my AC systems before the...
Approximately 3 weeks ago, I had a Heating/Air Conditioning tech come to my residence to conduct the annual inspection of my AC systems before the summer heat arrived. He was from a supposed well regarded Phoenix company with good reviews. It went down hill after that.
When completed, the tech reported that he would replace 4 of my electric motor run capacitors to the tune of $655.00. He also said that the R-22 refrigerant in my 5 ton main floor AC unit was low on refrigerant and that the unit was 'not cooling'. And finally, he stated that both of the ceiling mounted air filters were dirty.
Here's the rub.
Replacing a capacitor, though you should know what your doing to prevent being shocked, is not rocket science. Though I didn't really believe my capacitors were failing, I'm one who believes in preventative maintenance. So I replaced them myself with high quality Made in America capacitors for $130.00. It takes about 5 minutes each to replace them. Not $655.00.
The tech didn't know that two days before he arrived, I had replaced both my air filters with brand new clean ones. They weren't dirty though it would help if he opened the air handler door to check them in the first place.
Finally, the R-22 refrigerant.
R-22 is being phased out by the EPA for supposed damage to our atmosphere. This tech said that he would replace both of my AC units to the tune of just under $13,000.00 and that if I ordered them "today", he would not charge me to top of my supposedly low R-22. I said the one 5 ton unit was only 4 years old. I said no.
I then contracted with another Phoenix HVAC company, "Clark Heating and Cooling".
Dave, the owner, was professional, customer service orientated and above all, runs an "honest" company. He has to be, his name is on the side of his service trucks.
The tech who arrived from Clark HVAC, Eric , was on time and a knowledgeable and courteous HVAC tech. I told him that I was having doubts believing the R-22 refrigerant in the big 5 ton unit was low and as the previous tech stated "the one AC isnt' cooling". Which is a strange assumption since it was COLD in this home when he arrived. 2 + 2 isn't 5.
The Clark Heating and Cooling tech quickly inspected the 5 ton AC in both the air handler unit in the attic and the condenser and reported that this AC unit was working "perfectly" and was not low on R-22 refrigerant nor was there anything else wrong with it. Running perfectly. I realize this is a wordy review, but when you find an HONEST contractor, you should award him with praise and your continued business and let people know about this small, professional and most of all, honest contractor. I HIGHLY recommend "Clark Heating and Cooling" and Dave Clark and his staff, Ivan and Eric for all of your HVAC needs.
MJ. Hunter
David and his technicians were very professional, knowledgeable and friendly. David spent time helping us decide on the best heat pump to suit our...
David and his technicians were very professional, knowledgeable and friendly. David spent time helping us decide on the best heat pump to suit our space. I would highly recommend
Sue Krzyston
Professional, super respectful of homeowners, property and neighbors. Worked 8 hours straight making sure that everything was done correctly. Job...
Professional, super respectful of homeowners, property and neighbors. Worked 8 hours straight making sure that everything was done correctly. Job site spotless and thanked us for the opportunity to install our AC.
Kelly O
Thank you for coming out so fast! much appreciated.
Thank you for coming out so fast! much appreciated.
