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Air conditioner

5 Benefits Of Replacing My Air Conditioner

Written by rivaldigital on . Posted in Installation. No Comments on 5 Benefits Of Replacing My Air Conditioner

Summer is just around the corner in Virginia Beach, VA, and many residents are eagerly awaiting the sun-soaked days on the famous sandy shores. Whether it’s building sandcastles with the family or enjoying the lively boardwalk, Virginia Beach has something for everyone. But what about the comfort of your home when you return from a long, hot day outside? The last thing you want is an air conditioner that can’t keep up. Galactic Air Heating & Cooling is here to help you explore the incredible benefits of AC replacement in Virginia Beach, VA, ensuring you enjoy a cool and relaxing home all summer long.

Understanding AC Replacement

Air conditioner replacement isn’t just about getting a new system for your home; it’s really about upgrading your home’s comfort. AC replacement involves removing the old unit and installing a new, more advanced system that matches your specific needs. Whether it’s more energy-efficient cooling or the latest in smart technology, Galactic Air specializes in AC replacement and AC installation in Virginia Beach, VA. We also offer attractive financing options, making it easier for homeowners to invest in their comfort.

5 Key Benefits Of AC Replacement With Galactic Air Heating & Cooling

The decision to replace your AC system might seem daunting, but the benefits are substantial. Here are five remarkable advantages of scheduling AC replacement in Virginia Beach, VA with Galactic Air:

  • Improved Energy Efficiency
  • Enhanced Comfort
  • Reduced Repair Costs
  • Access to Modern Features
  • Increased Home Value

Improved Energy Efficiency

Older AC systems can consume more power and still struggle to cool your home. Replacing it with a modern, energy-efficient model can drastically reduce your energy bills. Galactic Air offers top-of-the-line systems that meet the latest energy-saving standards, providing optimal cooling without draining your wallet.

Enhanced Comfort

Your comfort is our priority. Replacing your old AC system ensures consistent temperatures, better humidity control, and a quieter operation. Experience a new level of comfort in your home with advanced features that come with a new AC Installation.

Reduced Repair Costs

Frequent repairs can be both frustrating and costly. A new AC system means fewer breakdowns and reduced maintenance costs. With Galactic Air’s expert installation and quality products, you can rest easy knowing your new system will provide reliable performance for years to come.

Access To Modern Features

Today’s AC systems come with innovative features like smart thermostats, zone cooling, and more. AC replacement allows you to upgrade to a system that fits your lifestyle, bringing modern convenience and control right to your fingertips. Galactic Air will help you find the perfect system tailored to your needs.

Increased Home Value

Investing in a new AC system not only enhances your daily comfort but also adds value to your home. Potential buyers often look for homes with efficient, up-to-date heating and cooling systems. Make a wise investment with Galactic Air’s top-notch AC replacement and installation services.

Ready For A Cooler Summer? Schedule Your AC Replacement With Galactic Air Today!

Replacing your air conditioner is more than just a home improvement; it’s an investment in your comfort, efficiency, and quality of life. Galactic Air Heating & Cooling in Virginia Beach, VA, specializes in AC replacement and offers financing options to suit every homeowner. Don’t let another summer go by with an outdated, inefficient AC system. Experience the transformative benefits of AC replacement with Galactic Air. Give us a call to schedule your AC installation in Virginia Beach, VA, today, and ensure a cool and comfortable summer!

Air conditioner

Is My Air Conditioner Energy Efficient?

Written by rivaldigital on . Posted in Energy Efficiency. No Comments on Is My Air Conditioner Energy Efficient?

From basking on the stunning sandy beaches to savoring the delicious coastal cuisine, the area offers a myriad of activities to enjoy in Virginia Beach, VA. However, with the summer season heating up, the comfort of your home becomes paramount since there’s nothing quite like taking a break in an air-conditioned room. But how energy-efficient is your AC system, and how can it contribute to an eco-friendly home? Galactic Air can help you both understand and improve the efficiency of your AC system in Virginia Beach and surrounding areas.

What Is Energy Efficiency?

Energy efficiency pertains to how well a system, like an air conditioner, uses energy. An energy-efficient AC consumes less power to deliver its function: cooling your home. Although a lower energy bill is a huge perk to an efficient system, it also helps you to reduce your environmental impact. Energy-efficient air conditioners are designed to maximize cooling performance while minimizing energy consumption. This is often reflected in a unit’s SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating, a critical marker of an AC’s energy efficiency.

How To Tell If My Air Conditioner Is Energy Efficient

Identifying the energy efficiency of your air conditioner isn’t as complex as you might think. Here are some things to look out for:

  • SEER Rating: As mentioned earlier, the SEER rating of an AC unit is a good indicator of its efficiency. The higher the SEER, the more efficient the AC.
  • Energy Star Label: Air conditioners certified by Energy Star meet strict efficiency guidelines set by the EPA and U.S. Department of Energy.
  • Energy Guide Label: This yellow label provides an estimate of the unit’s annual energy cost and allows you to compare it with other models.

Benefits Of An Energy Efficient Air Conditioner

An efficient air conditioner can provide various benefits for homeowners in Virginia Beach, such as:

  • Lower Energy Costs: Energy-efficient ACs consume less electricity, leading to substantial savings on your energy bills.
  • Environmental Impact: Reduced energy consumption also means less carbon emissions, contributing to a healthier environment.
  • Enhanced Comfort: These units often come with better technology for more consistent cooling and improved humidity control.
  • Increased Property Value: Homes with energy-efficient systems often command higher market values.
  • Rebates and Incentives: Various federal, state, and local incentives might be available for upgrading to an energy-efficient AC.

Improving Energy Efficiency With Galactic Air

If your air conditioner is newer and lacking in efficiency, call Galactic Air for professional AC maintenance in Virginia Beach, VA! Our experts will perform a variety of preventative tasks to help your air conditioner function optimally, while also avoiding premature replacements and AC repair in Virginia Beach.

However, it may be time to consider AC replacement in Virginia Beach, VA and surrounding areas. Galactic Air provides premier AC replacement and installation services to enhance a homeowner’s home’s comfort while reducing their energy footprint. Our experienced technicians can guide you in selecting an AC that matches your home’s cooling requirements and budget. We’ll take care of the complete installation process, ensuring your new AC performs at its peak efficiency.

Call Galactic Air For AC Services!

By understanding your AC’s efficiency and making smart decisions, you can enjoy the summer while saving on your energy bills. If you’re considering AC replacement in Virginia Beach, VA, trust the experts at Galactic Air to provide top-notch service. Call us today, and let’s make your home more comfortable and energy-efficient!

Controlling humidity with a dehumidifier

How To Control Humidity In The Summer

Written by rivaldigital on . Posted in Tips. No Comments on How To Control Humidity In The Summer

The summertime in Virginia Beach is particularly wonderful in this city, as gorgeous beaches and fantastic weather attract locals and tourists alike. However, the summertime does bring high humidity levels, which can damage your home and adversely affect your health.

At Galactic Air, your home comfort is our top priority, and it is important for homeowners to know how to control humidity in the summer. In this article, we discuss proper humidity levels, ways to control humidity, and how high humidity can affect your home in Virginia.

Proper Humidity Levels for Your Home

Humidity simply refers to the amount of moisture present in the air. Contrary to popular belief, humidity is actually necessary for home comfort. Too much or too little can have negative effects, which is why homeowners should maintain humidity levels between 30-50%.

How High Humidity Can Damage Your Home

High humidity can make your home uncomfortable and muggy. Too much humidity in your home can cause damage to your home’s structure and your personal belongings. Additionally, high humidity can cause health problems for residents and harm indoor air quality. Below we have listed several ways in which high humidity can damage your home and harm your health:

  • Mold and mildew growth
  • Increased chance of illness
  • Wood floor & furniture damage
  • Damaged electronics
  • Peeled paint & wallpaper
  • Extra strain on your fixtures (air conditioners, heaters, toilets)

Tips To Control Humidity In the Summer

If you are experiencing high humidity in Virginia Beach, the Galactic Air team can help! Too much humidity can affect your sleep and overall comfort, which is what our technicians are here to prevent. Below we have listed ways to control humidity in Virginia Beach, VA and surrounding areas.

Purchase A Dehumidifier

We recommend that all Virginia Beach homeowners purchase a dehumidifier. These handy units remove excess moisture from your home’s air supply and ensure optimal humidity levels. We find that homeowners love to place these units in spaces such as basements and crawl spaces.

Use Exhaust Fans

Kitchens and bathrooms are two of the main sources of excess moisture within a home. By placing an exhaust fan in these spaces, you can prevent water buildup from damaging walls, mirrors, and other important spaces. You will be able to cook and bathe in peace without worrying about potential humidity issues.

Ensure Proper Ventilation

Open doors and windows in your home, especially when performing tasks that create a lot of moisture. If you want to take a hot shower or boil food, for instance, give extra moisture a place to escape your home’s air supply. This step pairs nicely with exhaust fans.

Schedule AC Maintenance

Did you know that air conditioners work to remove humidity? Malfunctioning air conditioners can also contribute to high humidity, which is why AC maintenance in Virginia Beach, VA is essential. Units with broken parts or those that are too large for a given space can produce high amounts of moisture. Scheduling regular air conditioning maintenance ensures your AC system is working properly with no underlying malfunctions or obstructions contributing to humidity.

Call Galactic Air For Air Conditioning Services!

Having proper humidity levels comes with many benefits, from greater comfort to a lessened chance of property damage. The experts at Galactic Air Heating & Cooling understand how to control humidity in the summer. We want you to protect your home from any moisture damage, so you can focus on what really matters: enjoying the summer season.

If you are in need of AC repair in Virginia Beach or surrounding areas, give the Galactic technicians a call! Our qualified team can quickly arrive at your home and provide various air conditioning services to restore your comfort. Call us at (757) 575-5334 today!

5 Ways To Prepare Your AC Unit For Summer

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If you reside in the Virginia Beach area, you know summers here are no joke. With temperatures averaging about 85 degrees, staying cool and comfortable during this time of the year is crucial. Whether you are planning on enjoying a nice family vacation at your summer home or hosting a fourth of July party, the team at Galactic Heating & Cooling wants you to enjoy your summer festivities to the fullest. This blog will go over five effective ways to prepare your AC unit for the warmest months of the year.

When Should I Start Prepping My Unit For Summer?

Although there is no specific date you should start preparing your AC unit for summer, it is recommended that you start as soon as possible. With spring being in full swing, right now is the perfect time to take action. Picture this: You wake up, turn the weather channel on while making yourself breakfast, and overhear your local weather channel guy saying a heatwave is on its way. Then, you decide to lower your thermostat a few degrees when BOOM! Your AC won’t switch settings and something appears to be wrong. Taking action so this does not happen at the most inconvenient time is key.

What Should I Do To Prepare My AC Unit For Summer?

With that being said, there are a few things you can do at home and with the help of professional help to prepare your unit for the warmer weather. Following these steps will ensure your unit is ready to work hard for the summer to keep you and your loved ones comfortable:

  • Clean Air Filters
  • Check For Airflow Leaks or Obstructions
  • Remove Debris From Around The Outside Unit
  • Consider Switching To A Smart Thermostat
  • Request AC Maintenance

Clean Air Filters

Cleaning or replacing your air filters is simple and can be done so in a matter of minutes. If you let your unit’s air filter accumulate dust and debris for longer than it should, this can lead to motor burnout and ultimately failure. Additionally, dirty or clogged air filters can affect your home’s air quality levels, leading to negative health side effects. Depending on environmental factors such as number of pets and the type of filter you own, technicians advise that homeowners change their air filters approximately every 90 days.

Check For Airflow Leaks or Obstructions

So, you’re aware that you should check for airflow leaks or obstructions around your unit but don’t know exactly where to look. First, you will want to return to the areas where the ductwork is accessible once your HVAC system is turned on. Then, put your hand over the metal of the connections between each section of duct to check them. If air touches your hand, this points to an air leak and the connection is loose.

Remove Debris From Around The Outside Unit

Cleaning the outside unit is another important thing all homeowners should do while preparing their AC unit for the summer. A year’s worth of dirt and debris have accumulated around the cooling fins of the outdoor unit while it has been left outside, making it less efficient. To remove debris from around the outside unit, you will need:

  • A vacuum
  • A garden hose
  • A foaming coil cleaner
  • A trash bag
  • Gardening gloves
  • Garden scissors

Consider Switching To A Smart Thermostat

Thermostats are one of the most important parts of your HVAC system because they help maintain the required temperature throughout your home. Having a thermostat that works efficiently is crucial to save you money on energy bills and keep you and your loved ones comfortable year-round. If your thermostat is old and approaching the end of its lifetime, you should consider investing in a smart thermostat which uses advanced technology to learn your preferred temperature patterns.

Request AC Maintenance

Scheduling preventive maintenance will ensure that the equipment is operating at maximum efficiency as well as it will extend the life of your unit. If you’re a new homeowner, we understand that taking any of the steps listed above may seem tricky at first which is why Galactic Air is happy to help!

Give The Pros A Call

The professional technicians at Galactic Air Heating & Cooling are happy to walk you through any of the above steps. Taking action now to prepare your unit for the upcoming warm weather will save you lots of money and trouble on unexpected breakdowns. Leave the hard work to us and go enjoy your warm weather festivities!

How To Stay Cool If Your AC Goes Out

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It’s hot outside, and even hotter inside your home! If your AC goes out, don’t panic. There are a few things you can do to stay cool until an HVAC repair technician can come fix the problem. We will share some tips with you in this blog post on how to keep yourself and your family comfortable until the issue is resolved. Stay cool!

What Causes Air Conditioners To Break Down?

One of the most common reasons for an AC unit to break down is a dirty filter. If the filter is clogged, it can’t work properly and will cause the AC to overheat. Be sure to check the filter regularly and clean or replace it if needed.

Another common reason for an AC unit to break down is a power outage. If the power goes out, the AC unit will shut off. Be sure to check the breaker box and reset any tripped circuits. You may also need to contact your power company to resolve the issue.

If your AC unit is still not working, you can try some DIY troubleshooting techniques. Check the thermostat to make sure it is set to “cool” and the temperature is set below the current room temperature. Make sure all doors and windows are closed so that cool air isn’t escaping. Also, check for any debris or foliage blocking the AC unit. If you can’t resolve the issue, be sure to contact an HVAC repair technician as soon as possible.

Related Article: How To Tell If Your AC Unit Needs Repair

Ways To Stay Cool Until Your AC Can Be Repaired

In the meantime, there are a few things you can do to stay cool while you wait for the AC unit to be fixed. Drink lots of cold water and avoid alcoholic beverages, which can actually cause you to feel hotter. Dress in loose, light-colored clothing made of natural fibers like cotton or linen. Close blinds or curtains to keep out sunlight, and use fans to circulate air. If you have access to a pool or sprinkler, take advantage of it!

We hope these tips help you stay cool until your AC unit can be repaired. Remember, if the problem persists, be sure to contact an HVAC technician as soon as possible. Stay safe and cool!

Gas furnace installation

The Importance of Getting Your Heating System Tuned Up

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As we begin to enter the cooler months in fall and winter, homeowners across Virginia Beach will begin shifting from AC to heat in their house. Often times, when your heater or furnace goes a period of time without operation, it may encounter some issues when you turn it on. So it’s important to have a professional HVAC company come out and do a proper tune-up on your system before the cold weather arrives.

Benefits of Getting Your Furnace Tuned-Up

Aside from having a warm cozy home during the cold winter days, there are several benefits of routine maintenance to your residential heating system.

  • Improved efficiency
  • Increased lifespan of system
  • Lowered utility costs
  • Less repair costs
  • Improved indoor air quality

Don’t wait until you attempt to turn the heat on for the first time to get your system tuned-up!

Contact Galactic Air Today!

If you are interested in getting your heating system tuned-up and ready for the fall and winter months, contact Galactic Air today! Our team is standing by ready to help you out. You can schedule your service by calling (757) 575-5334 or you can request service online.

4 Ways To Save On Air Conditioning Costs In Summer

Written by rivaldigital on . Posted in Energy Efficiency. 1 Comment on 4 Ways To Save On Air Conditioning Costs In Summer

Beat The Heat This Summer With Galactic Air!

As we enter the month of May, we can anticipate much warmer days in the near future. In Virginia Beach, it’s common for us to have an average temperature of 90+ degrees during the summer, so having a well working air conditioning system is a must. However, if you aren’t mindful of these tips, you could run the risk of running up your energy bill all summer.

Below, you will find 4 easy ways to save on your air conditioning costs this year.

1. Change Your Filter Regularly

Did you know that by replacing your air filter, you can save anywhere from 10% to 15% on your energy consumption costs? When air filters are not changed at the appropriate time, they can become clogged with dust, dirt, and other particles that cause the airflow to be blocked from flowing throughout the house.

When the airflow is blocked, it caused the system to work harder than it needs to! Changing your filter regularly will allow the air to flow with ease. When your HVAC system works properly, it will help you reduce power bill costs, and provide greater comfort for your home.

2. Utilize Ceiling Fans

No only to ceiling fans help you stay cool in your home, but they can help you save on your bills! By moving the air in the room, you will feel more comfortable, which can help prevent the need to constantly be cranking the thermostat down.

3. Use Programmable Thermostat

Smart thermostats, or programmable thermostats are a great investment to make in your home energy-efficiency and overall comfort. By programming the thermostat to work when you need it to, it allows the system to only work hard when needed, and not constantly throughout the day when no-one is home.

Smart thermostats have gotten so advanced, that you can even control them from your phone or tablet, and some even learn your usage behaviors – meaning that it will learn when you utilize the air conditioning and set a schedule for you. Don’t worry though! If something changes, you can always adjust the schedule. Some studies have even suggested that you could save up to 10% on your energy costs by switching to a programmable thermostat.

4. Get An Annual Tune-Up Service

Just like how you take your car to the dealership or auto shop for routine tune-ups and maintenance, you should also get your AC system tuned-up! Annual AC tune-ups are essential to keep your system clean and operating at it’s best.

Contact The Pros At Galactic Air!

If you are looking for ways to save on your energy bills this summer and maximize your home’s energy efficiency – call Galactic Air! We specialize in ac repair, replacement, installation, and maintenance. We can help you beat the heat this summer and stay cool.

Why Does Proper Installation Matter?

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Best Equipment Installation in the Known Universe!

Why does proper installation matter?
Proper installation of your new home air conditioner/heater will ensure trouble free operation, will provide you with the comfort you expect and will save you the most money. Your HVAC system is the biggest energy hog of your house so getting the right capacity and efficiency is critical to saving you money while keeping you comfortable.

Properly sized HVAC system installation will ensure that the unit is providing you the necessary heating and cooling for your house. If the system is too large it will cycle on and off too much therefore, not providing the proper humidity control. This will lead to a swampy feeling in the house and an increase in your electric bill. Galactic Air Inc. makes sure you get the right equipment by doing a proper inspection prior to the installation.

Air conditioning systems that are not properly charged with refrigerant can cause all sorts of problems. Too little refrigerant can cause the system to freeze-up, reduce the capacity and efficiency of the system and even damage the compressor. Galactic Air Inc. charges the system by weight, super heat or subcooling as mandated by the manufacturer to ensure that the system is charged correctly. We have the tools to do the job right.

Air flow is a major part of a heating and air conditioning system. If the airflow is not managed correctly by undersized return ducts the system can overwork the blower motor causing premature failure. Also, failure to seal the ductwork can lead to conditioned air leaking into the attic or crawl space decreasing efficiency. Galactic Air Inc. seals all duct joints with screws, tape and/or mastic. All of our ductwork is properly insulated and we only use industry standard UL listed materials.

In essence, our installations are going to save you money while keeping you comfortable. Our installation specialists are trained to install equipment “like they would in their own home.” That is the basis for the way we do business. We put your comfort first and make sure our quality and service meet your needs! Out of this world service!

High efficiency equipment installation

There are some special considerations to make when installing a high efficiency HVAC or ductwork system. Equipment and ductwork size are extremely important when working with high efficiency systems. Galactic Air Inc. installation specialists are trained to make these considerations when designing the system. Larger return duct size is just one of the many things we do to make sure the system is going to last and provide comfort for the long term. Goodman equipment has some great technology when it comes to high efficiency air conditioning systems and we continually train with Goodman on the new technology.

Water Heaters and Tankless Water Heaters

Galactic Air Inc. also installs water heaters. If your water heater is older than 12 years you might consider changing it out for a new one. There are many options when it comes to water heaters that were not available in the past. If you have natural gas you can install a tankless water heater. Imagine endless hot water! The new tankless water heaters come with a circulating pump to circulate hot water through your pipes at certain times per day so even the farthest shower or sink has instant hot water. No more waiting for the hot water to reach the shower. Tankless water heaters are also more efficient because they do not heat a tank of water keeping it hot until you use it. When you turn on the hot water the tankless water heater jumps into action heating the water as it passes through it.

If you don’t have natural gas you can still get a high efficiency hot water heater in the form of a heat pump water heater. The heat pump uses a small compressor and refrigerant in addition to heating elements to heat the water using less electricity than just standard heating elements.

Galactic Air Inc. installation specialists are trained to install all types of water heaters. Direct vent water heaters, tankless water heaters, heat pump water heaters and hydronic heat water heaters are just some of the water heaters Galactic Air Inc. can install.

The Importance Of Routine HVAC Maintenance

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Proper maintenance saves you money and keeps you comfortable!

Our maintenance agreement is once a year. We will inspect your equipment from top to bottom. We test and inspect electrical components, check the equipment operation, and clean the coils when needed. Clean equipment equals more efficiency. Galactic Air Inc. does more to keep your system running properly than most other companies! Also, you get a 10% discount on all repairs as long as you are a maintenance member!

Maintaining HVAC equipment is essential to ensure peak performance at all times. Manufacturers advise that your HVAC system is efficiently maintained or serviced by professional techs at least once yearly. Occasionally, equipment warranties may be declined or voided if you fail to maintain or service the equipment. Having your HVAC system examined routinely also reduces the number of breakdowns experienced.

Underlying Issues
The HVAC system works more during scorching or freezing temperatures. For this reason, if there are any hidden problems with your system, it might not pop-up until the system is working its hardest for a long period. By maintaining your HVAC system on a regular basis, problems or underlying issues can be discovered and resolved instantly. This will avert any additional problems.
It is vital that you have your HVAC system serviced regularly to make sure that it is working properly. It is best to service the system before extensive use mounts pressure on it throughout the season.

Below are reasons why it is important to maintain your HVAC system regularly:

HVAC Maintenance Saves You Money
Changing the air filter is among the essential parts of preserving or maintaining HVAC systems. If your HVAC system can not take in or release air freely (breathe) it can stop working, freeze and leak water, or lead to a complete system breakdown.
HVAC coil cleaning and changing your system’s air filter is advisable by the supplier and will also help to keep your HVAC system working at peak performance and extend the life of the equipment.

Keeps you Comfortable Longer by Extending Service Life
Proper maintenance of your system on a regular basis will extend system service life. When your system gets professional yearly maintenance, it will cut down wear and tear and possible problems before they cause breakdowns.

Enhances the Efficiency
System maintenance ensures your system is working at its best, enhancing its performance. When your air conditioner, furnace, or heat pump is consuming less energy, you’ll see a savings in your utility bills.

Reduces Repair Needs
Another benefit of regular yearly maintenance is less time without heating or air conditioning. We check electrical components for wear and tear and can see when they are working harder than they should and need to be replaced before they break down. This we do during the maintenance so there is no need for a diagnostic fee. Saving you money and keeping you comfortable.