[New Post] How Do Wi-Fi Programmable Thermostats Work In Scottsdale? published on scottsdaleair

We’ve all heard about Wi-Fi programmable thermostats in Scottsdale, but has anyone actually wondered how they work? They seem to be the rage of custom homebuilders and HVAC companies, but quite often, simplicity and factual information, not marketing buzz is the best selling point.

Facts About Wi-Fi Programmable Thermostats Before Investing

Question #1 – What Are The Key Features Of A Wi-Fi Programmable Thermostat?

When it comes to the key features, the truth is that Wi-Fi programmable thermostats have tons of bells and whistles. However, many of these options are very good for helping you streamline the way your home HVAC system works. Some of the best features of any Wi-Fi programmable thermostat include:

• You can control them from virtually anywhere. If you have access to a smart phone, tablet or even computer, you can access an online and secure control panel that will connect to your programmable thermostat. This allows you to monitor your home or office temperature and make changes quickly from remote locations to adjust the temperature in order to save money. This is a huge benefit for winter visitors and those that have homes in Arizona but travel frequently.


• They offer flexible programming. Another nice feature of Wi-Fi thermostats is their programming flexibility. You can control different settings by the hour, day, minute, week, month or any other time period you can consider. You can also control different settings for different rooms.


• Auto Alert Feature: When you have your Wi-Fi programmable thermostat connected to your smart phone, you can set it up to send you updates and other reminders. Some of the best updates include letting you know when routine maintenance needs to be scheduled. And again, for those that travel frequently or live elsewhere, this gives you the luxury of scheduling maintenance checks while you’re not even home.

Question #2 – What Type Of Cooling Or Heating Systems Are Compatible With Wi-Fi Programmable Thermostats?

One of the best features of new technology is the flexibility they offer to work with multiple HVAC systems. Most Wi-Fi thermostats work with:

• Central Air Conditioning


• Central Heating


• Heat Pumps


• Furnaces


• And more

There are also mobile units that many people living in Scottsdale install inside their RV’s and traveling trailers.  As you can see, there are several types of HVAC systems that can be controlled with Wi-Fi programmable thermostats in Scottsdale.

Question #3 – What Can A Wi-Fi Programmable Thermostat Do That My Current System Can’t?

Besides the features we’ve posted above, there are a few other items that a programmable Wi-Fi Thermostat can accomplish that other basic units simply can’t, including the following:

• Wi-Fi Thermostats are extremely accurate: One of the best advantages of technology is that everything across the board tends to improve. This is the case with Wi-Fi thermostats, as they are known to monitor all phases of your home comfort system extremely accurately. This allows a homeowner to improve their overall home comfort levels to peak efficiency.


• Most Wi-Fi Thermostats display outdoor conditions: Many Wi-Fi thermostats can communicate with sensors outside to display an accurate reading of the outdoor heat and humidity. This is a nice additional perk if you’ve ever wondered if it was warm or cold outside and didn’t want to poke your head outside the door.

The bottom line is that Wi-Fi programmable thermostats offer homeowners and commercial building owners several benefits and upgrades simply not available with older systems. The best thing to consider is your specific application and whether or not this type of technology is beneficial for you.

Contact Scottsdale Air Heating & Cooling  at 480.359.7141 and we will answer your questions about the specific thermostats we sell, install and  service.

Read the full story at: http://www.scottsdaleair.com/how-do-wi-fi-programmable-thermostats-work-in-scottsdale/

[New Post] Tips To Protect Your HVAC Systems From Floods In Scottsdale published on scottsdaleair

Tips To Increase HVAC Flood Protection In Scottsdale

When the summer monsoon season comes, it often hits Scottsdale homeowners hard. And without question, one of the leading questions that many homeowners ask is what type of HVAC flood protection strategies can they take to be certain their outdoor AC unit does not become damaged when high waters arrive.

HVAC Systems And Expensive Flood Damage

Tip #1 – Consider Installing A Higher Concrete Base For Your HVAC Unit In Scottsdale

Typically, every HVAC system installed in Scottsdale is built outside; either on the side of a home or in the back yard. And with every new HVAC system, one thing needs to be done before installation: a concrete base or footer needs to be built. This is critical because it provides a stable support for the very heavy HVAC system. A great solution to reduce potential flood damage to the HVAC unit is to build a higher concrete base – perhaps a foot or two higher than normal. Standing water that flows no higher than 12” in most cases does most flood damage in Scottsdale.

There are a few things to consider before simply grabbing some Quick-Crete from the local hardware store:

• First, make sure that you check with local code enforcement or covenants inside your community to ensure that you can do this.


• Contact a professional HVAC company to help with the removal of the HVAC system while a professional contractor pours the new concrete slab.


• Have the same HVAC Company reinstall the HVAC system on the new concrete footer once it’s cured.

Tip #2 – Relocate Your HVAC System To Higher Ground

Many homes in Scottsdale have their HVAC system installed on the ground level for a few reasons:

• First, it’s easier for HVAC professionals to access, maintain and repair.


• Second, it’s easier for excess water to drain from a lower position.


• Third, it’s a traditional location and most homebuilders simply do what everybody else does.

Again, making sure you follow local code and community guidelines, first consider moving your HVAC unit to higher ground. Perhaps moving the unit to a second floor balcony or attic space that can completely protect the system from flood damage. This might be a bit extreme, but when you calculate the cost of replacing a HVAC system due to flood damage, it might be worth some discussion.

Tip #3 – Build A Flood Protection Wall

If you’re in the situation where you can’t move your HVAC system, or if it’s simply logistically impossible to build a higher concrete slab, another solution to improve HVAC flood protection in Scottsdale is to build a protection wall. Many contractors in Scottsdale specialize in designing and constructing an enclosed wall structure that will surround your HVAC system. In this case, they’ll make sure to follow local code enforcement and the 100-year flood levels to certify they do the job correct.

Any of these three tips are good ways to ensure you have maximum HVAC flood protection in Scottsdale. It is also a good idea to consider these options if you’re in the market for a new HVAC system as moving an existing system can be rather pricy.

We can always help with the purchase of a new HVAC system, call us at 480.359.7141

Read the full story at: http://www.scottsdaleair.com/tips-to-protect-your-hvac-systems-from-floods-in-scottsdale/

[New Post] Scottsdale Arizona AC Contractor | Hiring Someone Honest published on scottsdaleair

How To Know You’re Hiring An Honest Scottsdale AC Contractor

Contacting the air conditioning repair guy to get your AC unit back in tip-top shape is rather simple. But, how can you make sure that the Scottsdale AC contractor you’ve retained will provide you with honest, trustworthy and factual service? The sad truth is that there are many AC contractors out there that try and take advantage of home owners by nickel and diming them with hidden costs and unexpected bills that show up after a typical AC service.

Have Peace Of Mind When Hiring A Scottsdale AC Contractor With These 3 Tips

Tip #1 – Check out their Website & Social Media Pages

One of the best qualities any company can have is open and transparent communication. And without a doubt the best place to easily verify this important consumer attribute is online; such as their website and social media channels. There are several ways to examine their record and ways they communicate with their customers such as:

• Does their website have a blog? When a company takes time to update their customers on new services, offer tips, advice and other helpful items, you can feel confident that they take pride in open communication and taking care of their customers.


• Do they post direct links to user reviews? If a company is proud of their customer service record, they’ll actively show their potential customers. Usually when an AC contractor in Scottsdale is not too confident in their customer service, they’ll do exactly the opposite.


• Do they have an active social media platform, like Facebook and Twitter pages? And if so, do they post spam or do they interact with their customers and potential customers online?

Tip #2 – Verify their Service Record with BBB

The Better Business Bureau has been a leading provider of factual reviews on a company’s business dealings within the communities they service. When a consumer has filed a complaint with the BBB about a Scottsdale AC contractor, the BBB spends plenty of time actively researching their claims to ensure they only post factual information about the company. If a company has a solid reputation with the BBB, you can be certain that they operate their business under positive ethics and will generally treat you very honestly. When a company has a bad reputation with the BBB, contact another AC contractor.

Tip #3 – Interview The AC Contractor Before You Hire

Finally, the best way to find peace of mind when working with any contractor is to interview them first. Nothing is better than meeting somebody personally to interact with them – especially when you are planning to pay them for a service. When you take the time to sit down and ask them questions that are relevant and important to you it becomes much easier to work with them.

Consider asking them a few questions including:

1. Do you have a few references of previous recent customers I can contact?


2. How long have you been licensed to complete AC repairs in Scottsdale?


3. What insurance protection does your company carry?

By taking time to simply do a little bit of research about any Scottsdale AC contractor you intend on hiring, you can protect your home and family from unscrupulous vendors that provide poor quality work.

Ready to put your trust in us for your AC installation and repair needs; add your email address to the form on the right and subscribe to our newsletter today!

Read the full story at: http://www.scottsdaleair.com/scottsdale-arizona-ac-contractor-hiring-someone-honest/

[New Post] Need A Fast AC Fix? 3 Important Tips To Be Efficient published on scottsdaleair

So you’ve just arrived home in the middle of July and walk into a sauna. What do you do? If this has ever happened to you, you understand that trying to plan a quick AC fix is harder than you’d think. From taking time to try and find the problem, to calling a contractor and waiting for them to arrive, it can literally take days before your AC system is back in operational shape. However, what would you say if I told you there are three easy tips that would help you get your AC fixed in Arizona quicker than ever before?

3 Steps To Help Prepare For Unexpected AC Repairs

Tip #1 – Be Proactive: Find A Good HVAC Contractor Today!

The most time consuming part of finding a qualified contractor to complete any repairs in your home or office is the time actually spent looking for a qualified contractor in the first place. Wouldn’t it be awesome if you were proactive and had a plan in place where you could simply pick up the phone and call a dependable HVAC contractor to show up ASAP?

Here are a few ways to accomplish this quick fix.

• Do Some Research About HVAC Systems

The first thing you should know about your HVAC system is exactly what type, brand and model of HVAC system is keeping your home cool. Having access to this information can significantly improve the repair time. Here is what you should do to accomplish this.

a) Find out what brand and model of cooling system and heating unit you have inside your home.

b) Find out what type of thermostat you have, make, model, and color – every detail possible.

c) Write it down in an emergency action folder that you can easily access in time of crisis.

• Find A Qualified Contractor That Services Your Particular AC System

The next step here is to search online for contractors that complete AC service on your specific type of unit. A simple Google search can help you here. Take time before the repair is needed to call them and ask about their service and repair programs available. If you like them, put their contact information inside your emergency book.

Tip #2 – Find out where the AC System is located

The second tip to expedite your AC repairs is to know the location of your system. If you have a split system, know where your main unit is installed, and where your internal fan system is located. It’s also a good idea to know the location of utility emergency shut off (gas, electrical and water if applicable) in case of emergency.

Tip #3 – Keep your HVAC contractor on Speed Dial

When it’s above 100 degrees outside and your AC decides to break down, scrambling to find the phone number for the HVAC repair guy won’t help provide a quick AC fix or reduce your stress level. It’s always great to be organized, which is why we recommend a centrally located emergency phone number and plan notebook to be located and easy to access when things break down. Keeping your AC repair specialist on your cell phone contact list can go a long way to making sure your air conditioning system gets back online as quick as possible.

Did you know we offer monthly deals and special giveaways? Simply add your email to the form at the top of the right column to collect your monthly deals!

Read the full story at: http://www.scottsdaleair.com/need-a-fast-ac-fix-3-important-tips-to-be-efficient/

[New Post] Communicating With Scottsdale Air Conditioning Contractors published on scottsdaleair

Regardless of the industry, teamwork is a critical element in order to achieve success. And when it comes to fixing, installing or maintaining an air conditioning unit, knowing how to work and communicate with Scottsdale air conditioning contractors can significantly improve the working relationship. In fact, knowing what you can do to help articulate the issues that your homes AC system is experiencing can and often does lead to more effective and less costly repairs.

How To Work With Scottsdale Air Conditioning Contractors

Hint #1 – Learn the Basics about your AC System

For the most part, contacting the local AC repair company when you need service will be rather simple. You often need to provide some basic information in order to determine whether or not the company you’ve contacted is qualified and available to fix your problem. Some of the specifics you should investigate prior to contacting any Scottsdale AC Contractors include:

• What type of air-conditioning system you have cooling your home. Is it a heat pump system, an all-in-one HVAC unit or a central air system?


• What brand of air conditioning system is keeping your home cool? And, are there different parts to this system; i.e. is there a unit outside and one inside or just one outside?


• What size of AC system do you have?


• How long have you had this AC system installed inside your home and what was the last time it was serviced?

When you can find out these answers, and then contact the AC contractor, the process will flow much smoother.

Hint #2 – Try to Ensure Safety Prior to their Visit

Another helpful hint that will assist the contractor you hire to fix your AC system in Scottsdale is to consider the safety of the contractor when they visit your home. The best way to accomplish this is to think about what things inside your home can pose potential safety risks. Here are a few specific things to consider:

• Do you have any pets that might pose a danger to a visiting contractor? If so, take proactive measures to secure them before the contractor arrives.


• Are there any obstructions near the work area that might cause trips, falls, or other potential safety concerns? If so, take measures to remove them if possible. If nothing else, please communicate those potential safety concerns to any HVAC contractor.


• Do you know where your main power supply is located? You’re Scottsdale air conditioning contractor will need to access this and shut off power to the unit when they work on the ac system.

As you can see, some of these hints are very basic. However, by simply taking the appropriate action to find out answers to these questions can reduce the time spent on repairs and maintenance. Plus, it will ensure your Scottsdale air conditioning contractors will remain safe when they complete any repairs to your system.

Read the full story at: http://www.scottsdaleair.com/communicating-with-scottsdale-air-conditioning-contractors/