With average summer highs reaching 88 degrees, reliable air conditioning is key to keeping cool in Glendora, CA. Mini-split AC systems offer a comfortable, effective, and highly efficient alternative to central AC that’s perfect for a wide variety of homes. Let’s explore the benefits of ductless air conditioning as well as what to expect during your mini-split AC installation. 

Why Homeowners Are Choosing Mini-Split AC Systems

Mini-split systems are a popular choice for homeowners seeking ductless cooling. Explore mini-split basics to see if a mini-split may be the right fit for your next AC replacement:

What is a mini-split system?

Ductless mini-split air conditioning, also known as mini-split systems, is a compact and versatile home cooling system that doesn’t require ductwork. Mini-splits are designed to allow different cooling options in individual rooms, so you can customize the temperature in each space.

How does a mini-split work?

Each mini-split system has two main components: the outdoor compressor and the indoor units. The indoor units are usually mounted to the wall inside your home, and each unit can be set to a specific cooling temperature for that room. All the indoor units are connected to the outdoor compressor, facilitating cooling throughout your home.

The Smart Choice: Benefits of Mini-Split AC

Wondering whether a mini-split AC is worth it? Discover the benefits of mini-splits for customized comfort, flexible installation, and energy savings

• Zoned comfort in every room
• No ducts, no hassle
• Lower utility bills & greater efficiency
• Perfect for additions, garages, and older homes

Mini-Split vs. Central AC: Which Is Right for You?

Mini-split systems offer an efficient and effective alternative to central AC. Explore mini-split AC pros and cons and compare the two cooling systems to find the best fit for your home.

Cooling performance compared

Both mini-splits and central AC deliver strong cooling power. The primary difference is that central AC has one indoor unit, meaning it offers only one indoor temperature option. Mini-split systems have multiple indoor units so that you can set each room to a different temperature. 

Installation requirements

Central AC requires ductwork, while mini-split systems do not. If your home does not currently have ductwork, a mini-split is usually the most efficient option, as adding ductwork can significantly increase total installation costs.

Upfront cost vs. long-term value

While mini-splits typically have a higher upfront installation cost, they also deliver better long-term value. Mini-splits are more energy efficient than central AC, saving you money on your power bill. This can add up to significant savings in the long run. 

Accurate: Reliable Mini-Split Installation Services

At Accurate Electric, Plumbing, Heating & Air, we’re committed to delivering precision quality with great customer service. As a family-owned business with decades of trusted service, we’re passionate about providing the best possible installations and repairs to our Glendora community. 

Our commitment to comfort and care

Each home is different, which is why we forego the ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach and treat each job like it’s unique. We’ll give you upfront pricing and a personalized quote before we start service so you can feel confident knowing exactly what you’re paying for. Our coupons and special offers deliver even more deals on tune-ups, service discounts, installations, and other great home services. 

The benefits of booking with us

We offer free consultations and a range of financing options, including the Accurate Advantage Plan for cost-effective annual checkups, maintenance, and more. 

What to Expect During Installation

Considering a mini-split system in your home? Learn what to expect during the installation process

How long does installation take?

Installation time for a ductless mini-split system depends on the number of indoor units being installed. If you’re only installing one, expect the installation to be as quick as one to three hours. For multiple indoor units, installation may take between four to six hours.

Placement tips for indoor units

Your HVAC pro can help you choose the best spot for the indoor units. However, these tips can help guide your planning:

• Install on an exterior wall.
• Avoid barriers like furniture that can obstruct airflow.
• The unit should not be in direct sunlight.
• Explore options for wall-mounted, floor-mounted, and ceiling-mounted units to compare which fits best in your space.

Working with licensed professionals

Installing an AC comes with safety risks from refrigerant and electricity, so it’s essential to hire a licensed HVAC technician with the appropriate tools and knowledge.

A mini-split is also a significant investment. Qualified pros can install your system without risking damage to the parts. They can also place AC components in the most effective way to keep your home cool and comfortable. 

Choose Accurate for Your Mini-Split Installation in Glendora, CA

Looking for ductless mini-split installation near you? We deliver reliable, knowledgeable, and friendly home services in Glendora, CA. We’ll provide free consultations, honest advice, and ongoing maintenance support from technicians who treat you like family. Contact us to book your mini-split installation assessment and discover how Accurate can help you find your most comfortable home cooling solution.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a ductless mini-split system last?

Most mini-split systems last 10 to 15 years, although some may last 20 years. This is similar to the lifespan of a standard central AC system. Regular maintenance can help prolong the life of your ductless mini-split.

Are mini-split systems better than window units?

While mini-splits have a higher initial cost than window units, they are also more effective, more efficient, and quieter. Since you can install multiple indoor units with a mini-split, they also offer greater flexibility and cooling power for conditioning your whole home.

What are alternatives to central AC?

Ductless mini-splits are a great alternative to central AC since they provide air conditioning without the need for ductwork. Other options include window units for localized cooling and QuietCool fans that bring outdoor air into your home.

There are few things worse than spending a hot summer day at home when, all of a sudden, the AC goes out. Don’t panic — you may not need to call an AC repair service right away. We have plenty of tips to offer for you to troubleshoot the problem. Keep reading for everything you need to know about what to do when your air conditioner goes out.

Quick Recap

• If your AC shuts down, try checking your thermostat, circuit breaker, and air filter before calling a pro.
• If you suspect an issue with your condensate drain, compressor, evaporator coils, or refrigerant is causing the issue, shut the power off and call a professional.
• While waiting for your AC repair pro, be sure to stay cool with fans, cool showers, and lots of water.

First Steps to Take When Your AC Stops Working

Before doing anything else, confirm that your power is still on. If it is, then you know the issue is likely with the air conditioner. Before you go calling a professional for an emergency AC check-up, try the following troubleshooting methods and see if you can get it up and running yourself.

Check the thermostat settings

The first thing you’ll want to do if your AC is not working is check the thermostat. If you have air that’s controlled by a thermostat, make sure a faulty thermostat isn’t to blame. In some cases, the batteries may have died, or the unit may be malfunctioning. Reset the thermostat to see if that turns the AC unit back on. If not, then try turning the AC on manually. If that does the trick, then it’s time to replace your thermostat. 

Inspect the circuit breaker

Another thing to check before declaring your AC in need of repair is the power and circuit breaker. Air conditioners can cause surges in power use, especially if it’s really hot outside and the AC is working too hard to keep your house cool. You can easily locate and check the circuit breaker to see if the switch has flipped. If so, flip the switch back on and see if that starts up the AC again.

Look for a dirty air filter

In some cases, a very dirty and clogged air filter can lead to an AC shutdown. Take a look at your air filter, and if it’s visibly dirty, replace or clean it (depending on the manufacturer’s instructions) and try resetting the system. In many cases, this is all your unit needs to start running again.

Why Did My AC Stop Working Suddenly?

Like we mentioned above, a malfunctioning thermostat, tripped circuit breaker, or dirty air filter can easily shut down a system. But there are other potential causes to consider, too.

Common causes

Other potential reasons for an AC shutdown include:

• Clogged condensate drain, causing excess moisture buildup
• Frozen evaporator coils
• Low refrigerant levels
• Malfunctioning compressor motor
• Failing capacitors

Because these issues are more complex and sometimes more dangerous to repair yourself, we strongly suggest leaving these repairs to an AC professional.

How to Cool Your Home While Waiting for AC Repair

If you’re dealing with an AC breakdown or an AC blowing warm air, you’ll need some way to keep your home cool while you wait for an AC repair pro. While there’s no real replacement for a functioning air conditioner, you can make your space bearable by using fans, using blinds to keep sunlight out, staying hydrated, and taking cool showers.

When Should I Call an AC Professional?

If the AC shutdown isn’t fixed by adjusting the thermostat, flipping the circuit breaker, or changing the air filter, it’s time to contact a pro. Attempting to DIY air conditioner repairs, particularly related to refrigerant and electrical components, puts both you and your system at risk.

Signs it’s time for emergency service

Besides a shutdown that you can’t fix yourself, there are a few other signs you need emergency air conditioner repair. If you notice any of the following issues, shut off the power to your air conditioner straight away and contact a 24/7 emergency HVAC repair pro:

• Strange, loud noises from the system (banging, screeching, etc.)
• Smoky or burning smells from HVAC vents
• Any signs of fire, such as sparks or smoke
• Signs of hazardous refrigerant leaks
• Water leaks
• Short-cycling (system repeatedly turning on and off)
• Visible freezing on your unit

Benefits of booking with Accurate Electric, Plumbing, Heating & Air

Now that we understand what to do when your AC stops working, how do you know who to call for AC repair in the San Gabriel Valley? At Accurate Electric, Plumbing, Heating & Air, emergency AC service is one of our top offerings. 

We’re highly experienced in fixing HVAC units of all kinds, including conventional central air units, heat pumps, and zoned air conditioners. Plus, we help make the big jobs accessible through coupons, special offers, and affordable financing, ensuring you can always get the repairs you need when you need them.

How to Prevent Your AC from Going Out in the Future

The best way to deal with AC shutdowns is to prevent them in the first place! To avoid this summertime calamity, we recommend:

• Changing your air filter every 1 to 3 months, or according to manufacturer instructions.
• Clean your outdoor AC unit at least once a year.
• Periodically check your thermostat to make sure its batteries are working.
• Keep HVAC vents and registers clear of furniture, rugs, and other obstructions.
• Invest in annual AC maintenance, tune-ups, and duct cleanings.

Service Areas in San Gabriel Valley, CA

We proudly serve homeowners in San Gabriel Valley, Rancho Cucamonga, and Glendora, CA as well as in these nearby ZIP codes:

91702, 91706, 91722, 91723, 91724, 91731, 91732, 91733, 91740, 91741, 91744, 91745, 91746, 91748, 91750, 91754, 91755, 91765, 91766, 91767, 91768, 91770, 91773, 91775, 91776, 91780, 91789, 91790, 91791, 91792, 91801, 91803

Final Thoughts — Stay Cool and Call the Experts

An AC breakdown is never part of our summer plans, but unfortunately, these things happen from time to time. The good news is that the Accurate team is here to help. We’ll arrive quickly, troubleshoot thoroughly, and only leave when your system is up and running again. For more info or to schedule AC repairs today, don’t hesitate to contact us.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I reset my AC unit after it stops running?

If you’re trying to troubleshoot your AC yourself, make sure to only attempt to repair it when the power is shut off to the unit at the circuit breaker. After making your repairs, leave the breaker flipped off for about 30 minutes, then turn it back on to see if your AC will run again.

Should I turn off the AC if it’s blowing warm air?

If your AC is blowing warm air instead of cold, it could be a sign of electrical issues, a dirty air filter, or damage to other components. Switch off the unit at the circuit breaker and contact a professional for emergency AC repairs.

How long does it usually take to get emergency AC service?

While exact emergency AC repair service times vary depending on current demand, your location, and traffic conditions, we do everything in our power to arrive within 24 hours of your call when you need emergency air conditioner service.

Hello, Super Bowl fans and homeowners! As the big game approaches, it’s not just your TV that needs to be game-day ready. Your home does too! Join us at Accurate Electric, Plumbing, Heating & Air as we play our own version of MythBusters, geared towards home maintenance. Get ready for some fun and facts as we use football lingo to tackle common myths about HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and smart home technology.

HVAC Hail Mary – Regular Maintenance is a Must

• The Myth: You don’t need regular maintenance on your HVAC system.

• The Truth: Much like a quarterback needs practice to stay sharp, your HVAC system requires regular check-ups to perform at its best. We’ll show you why skipping routine maintenance is like missing training camp and how it can leave you unprepared for the heatwave equivalent of the Super Bowl.

Electrical End Zone – Power Play and Safety

• The Myth: More outlets mean more power.

• The Truth: It’s not about the number of outlets, but how you use them. Overloading your electrical system can result in a safety foul, much like overconfident showboating on the field can lead to a penalty. Learn how to manage your home’s electrical needs safely and efficiently.

Plumbing Play Action – The Impact of a Leaky Faucet

• The Myth: A leaky faucet isn’t a big deal.

• The Truth: Just as small penalties can add up to a big loss in football, a small leak can escalate into major plumbing issues. Discover the importance of early detection and repair to keep your plumbing system in top game condition.

Touchdown Technology – Embracing the Ease of Smart Homes

• The Myth: Smart homes are too complicated.

• The Truth: Think of smart home technology as your star wide receiver – versatile, efficient, and a game-changer. We’ll explain how user-friendly and customizable smart home devices are, making your life easier, just like a well-executed play on the field.

Air Filter Blitz – Changing Filters is Key to Efficiency

• The Myth: Changing filters often isn’t necessary for your HVAC system.

• The Truth: Just like a football team relies on a strong offensive line to protect the quarterback and ensure smooth play, your HVAC system depends on clean air filters to operate efficiently. Regularly changing your air filters is crucial to prevent dust and debris build-up, which can impede your system’s performance. Neglecting this simple maintenance task is akin to letting the defense break through, putting unnecessary strain on your HVAC system and potentially leading to costly repairs down the line. Read more about the benefits of changing out your air filters here.

Game Day Hosting Tips:

• Tips for creating the perfect game day atmosphere at home.

• How to prepare your home systems to host a memorable Super Bowl party.

Ready to debunk more myths and get your home in winning shape for the Super Bowl and beyond? Give us a call today to schedule your appointment. AND REMEMBER, with Accurate Electric, Plumbing, Heating & Air, you’re always part of the winning team.

Our Super Techs wear special hats this season, akin to Santa’s helpers, and we’re all about ensuring your family’s comfort! Even in sunny Southern California, where we may not encounter icy conditions like our Northern neighbors, here are five tips to keep the warmth flowing through your home:

Regular Filter Check-Ups: Imagine your furnace filter as Santa’s workshop – it works hard to keep everything running smoothly. Regularly check and change your filter every 1-3 months, especially during heavy-use periods. A clean filter ensures efficient airflow, improves indoor air quality, and helps your furnace work its magic without overexerting.

As we bid farewell to the heat and welcome the cooler breeze, it’s the perfect time to indulge in some fall home maintenance. But why settle for the usual routines when you can infuse a touch of Halloween magic into the mix? Join us as we embark on a journey through ghostly gutters, haunted circuits, and more, all while having a spooktacularly good time!

1. Vampire Energy Suckers – Don’t Let Them Drain Your Wallets!

Ever wondered why your energy bills rise from the dead every month? It’s those sneaky vampire energy suckers! Unplug those energy-hungry devices lurking around your home when not in use; they’re worse than vampires after blood! Oh, and a bonus tip: make sure your fixtures wear the right wattage bulbs!

2. Monster Tune-Up – Keep Your Home Comfortable and Spooky Noise-Free!

Is your heating system making spooky noises and not working as well as it used to, after turning it back on after all this time? It’s time for a monster tune-up! Our expert technicians will chase away those pesky issues before they morph into full-blown spook-fests. Ensure your home is as cozy as a witch’s cauldron all fall and winter long.

3. Cryptic Water Pressure – Ghostbusting Mysteries!

Low water pressure sending chills down your spine? Don’t worry; it’s not a curse, just a plumbing mystery waiting to be solved. Look for damp spots, dripping pipes, or hissing sounds. Our local experts are here to banish those cryptic water pressure conundrums from your home.

4. Zombie Noises from Your Heater – Time for an Undead-Free Upgrade!

Are you tired of your heating system sounding like a groaning zombie? Don’t let it haunt your peace of mind, or your budget! Upgrade to a new, reliable unit that won’t spook you with unexpected breakdowns. Avoid the zombie noises of an inefficient AC; call Accurate today!

This fall, let your home dance to the tune of tricks, treats, and top-notch maintenance. And hey, Glendora and San Gabriel Valley residents, this one’s for you! Accurate Electric, Plumbing, Heating and Air isn’t just your friendly neighborhood service provider; we’re your local ghostbusters in keeping your homes spook-free and cozy.Have a fa-boo-lous Halloween!

We often hear people tout setting their AC super low at the first signs of the great outdoors heating up. Being too hot isn’t comfortable but neither is paying too much for your utility bill. But setting the thermostat low doesn’t cool your home faster and bring you back to the level of comfort you love – it just costs more money and puts unneeded stress on your unit. Maybe you’re thinking that you need to get a larger unit installed or close some vents in an effort to get cool more quickly. That’s why we are here for you and why we care. You don’t need a larger unit to find relief from the heat – if your unit is old, rusty and inefficient, then we should talk, but for your summer time use, even hot days in spring and fall, using your AC smartly will be enough. Check out these myths we’ve busted and why:

1.       Cool your home faster by turning the thermostat way down – The truth is, no matter the setting, your AC unit will run at the same pace. Setting your AC as close to the outside temp as you are comfortable will save you money.

2.       The larger the AC unit the better it works – You’ll wear out a larger unit much faster if it’s too big for your home. The compressor will be forced to turn on and off quickly; this uses more electricity and shortens the lifespan.

3.       Save energy by turning off the AC when you’re not home – Turning your unit off means it will need to work that much harder to cool your home to your comfort level. It’s best to adjust the thermostat a few degrees rather than a total shut-down.

4.       Air conditioning causes summer colds – Viruses cause colds, not AC. It’s possible you’re dealing with allergies and a clean filter or duct cleaning is a great option.

5.       Air filters only need to be replaced annually – Air filters need to be changed regularly to keep your unit running efficiently and the air flowing properly.

6.       Use your old AC unit until it breaks and then get it replaced – Although a new efficient unit will cost upfront, you’ll save money and not pay for needless repairs on a unit that costs more to run due to inefficiency.

7.       You can put the Thermostat anywhere in your home; location doesn’t matter – A central location in your home, away from heat/cooling sources, will give the best temperature reading.

8.       Keep rooms cooler with fans – Fans can cool you down, but not your room. They do not affect air temperature.

9.       Close vents in unused rooms to save money and energy – Doing this causes pressure to build in your ducts, affects the air distribution and makes your unit work harder.

10.   Your air conditioner will run/cycle less with the ceiling fans on all the time – Again, fans don’t change the air temperature, they circulate. They don’t aid in your AC unit working efficiently.

11.   A newer AC unit doesn’t need regular checkups; it’s a waste of time and money – Checkups mean you can keep your new unit running efficiently for as long as possible or even extend the lifespan.

Now that you’ve seen the myths busted and why, try some of these points and see how it changes your utility bill and comfort level. Let us know how you’re doing and if we can assist you with maintenance checks or other items. We’re here to help and serve you.

If you find yourself in a home that is uncomfortably warm in the summer, or too cool in the winter there are 5 simple areas to check first that most homeowners can do on their own. These troubleshooting tips can help you with simple malfunctions. Any problems outside of these 5 HVAC troubleshooting tips will be a reason to call in your trusted San Gabriel Valley HVAC contractor from Accurate Heating Plumbing & Air.

Replace Filters. The unsung heroes of a comfortably cool home are the air filters. When they are replaced regularly, they can do the job of filtering dust, pollen, pet dander, and other small particles out of the air that you and your family breathe. They also help your HVAC unit work efficiently to make your home the desired temperature. Without changing your air filters regularly, the filters get clogged and prevent your HVAC unit from warming or cooling your home properly. The good news is that replacing your air filters is a simple task and does not require any previous experience.

Check Thermostat. If you notice your home not cooling or heating as you’d like, check your thermostats in the house. The unit itself may not be working and you can check it by adjusting the temperature setting on your unit and noticing if the HVAC unit kicks on. If it does not adjust accordingly in a reasonable amount of time (say within a minute or 2) the battery inside the thermostat may need replacing. If that doesn’t work, it might be time for a new thermostat.

Confirm Power. Sometimes, a quick check of your circuit breaker panel can confirm that your HVAC unit isn’t working because there is no power going to it anymore. While the thermostat unit has a battery inside it to keep the panel running in the case of a power outage, the HVAC unit itself cannot work without a power source. A switch of the circuit breaker might be all you need to get back up and running. If the whole house is out of power, you will need to wait until the power is restored for the unit to kick back on.

Clear Unit Space. Depending on how your house is set up, an outside unit will need some attention throughout the year. If your unit has collected branches, leaves, dirt and debris, they may be keeping your fan from running. Take some time to clean up whatever has accumulated on and around your HVAC condenser unit. 

Check Vents. It can be easy to forget that you have vents inside the home in each room when furniture or other items obstruct them. These items don’t just obstruct the vents though, they also limit the circulation of the air throughout your home. If you’re noticing your home is not cooling or heating as well as you’d like, try to clear the space around each vent as well. Some of the most common things obstructing vents are area rugs and furniture which you may want to consider moving somewhere else. 

A basic understanding of these 5 areas related to the HVAC unit can help you fix what you can, and call in the professionals as soon as it’s needed. This will help you reach the goal of having a comfortable home due to your HVAC unit working efficiently and properly throughout the year. So whenever that is not happening, you now know the 5 most common and simple ways to troubleshoot, and who to call when it’s time for reliable, accurate and professional help.

Many people are eagerly awaiting the arrival of fall. Take the following 3 steps to prepare for Fall in California, as doing so will protect the home and household systems from damage. 

Have the HVAC Unit Serviced

Contact Accurate Electric Plumbing Heating & Air for a maintenance call. Air conditioners often work nonstop during the hot months. This maintenance visit allows the technician to examine the unit and find problems in the early stages. In addition, they can take steps to improve the performance of the unit. This visit will help the homeowner save money and reduce the risk of the unit breaking down. 

Ask the technician if they will clean the outdoor compressor during this visit. The unit must remain clean and free of debris to operate properly and reduce the need for a heater repair or an air conditioner repair. Dirt and trash may make their way into the unit’s fins and compromise its efficiency. This cleaning removes the debris to ensure optimal performance. 

When the technician arrives at the home, ask them about other steps that can be taken to increase the efficiency of the unit. They can make recommendations on which filters to use, how often to service the unit, and more. 

Reconfigure the Thermostat

Many homeowners today invest in a programmable thermostat. This thermostat allows them to raise or lower the temperature in the home when they will be gone for several hours. They then set the thermostat to raise or lower the temperature in the home shortly before they return. 

This saves the homeowner money. However, many people forget to reconfigure the thermostat when the seasons change. As a result, the thermostat forces the HVAC system to work harder than it needs to. 

Many homeowners set a consistent temperature for all hours they are home. Consider lowering the thermostat when the family is sleeping. Add more blankets to beds to keep family members warm without spending more than is needed to heat the home.

Program the thermostat to raise the temperature in the house an hour before everyone wakes up. The house should be warm when people are up and moving around. When they aren’t home or sleeping, however, there is no need to keep the home at the same temperature. 

Install Weatherstripping

Weatherstripping needs to be replaced from time to time. As with insulation, weatherstripping plays a key role in how hard the HVAC unit must work to condition the air in the home. The addition of weatherstripping reduces air leaks in the home. 

In addition to reducing the work of the HVAC unit, weatherstripping helps to increase the comfort of the home’s occupants. The indoor air is also healthier to breathe. Weatherstripping combined with caulking produces the best results, and homeowners see a quick return on their investment. 

Weatherstripping is used for those household components that move, such as doors and windows. Caulk, in contrast, is used on stationary parts of the home where air may leak in or out. 

Never put off HVAC maintenance and repair tasks. Doing so can be costly. By taking these steps, a homeowner prepares the HVAC unit and the home for fall and sleeps in peace at night knowing this is one less thing they must worry about. 

Accurate Electric Plumbing Heating and Air Story

I started working in the electrical field in 1989 and quickly realized customer service wasn’t a priority for most companies in the industry. I wanted to change this and provide dependable and affordable electrical services. Over the years, the company has grown and we now offer electrical, HVAC, and plumbing services to ensure customers have quality service at affordable prices for all their systems.