FAQ
Our Frequently Asked Questions
What Signs Indicate I Need to Replace My Breaker Panel?
When determining if you need to replace your breaker panel, our electricians recommend watching for the following signs:
- Age of the electrical panel
- How often the circuit breakers are tripping
- Signs of damage to the breaker panel
- Frequently flickering lights
- Code compliance issues
When Should I Replace My Home’s Wiring?
When deciding if you need to replace your home’s aging wiring, our electrical contractors suggest looking for these symptoms:
- You have bad wiring connections.
- You notice the lights dimming or brightening periodically.
- You notice the lights flickering.
- You notice the odor of burning plastic.
- You see sparks, flames, or smoke.
- You notice the wires start to overheat.
- You notice scorching around or behind the faceplate.
.
Why Is My Water Heater Running Out of Hot Water So Quickly?
Are you running out of hot water faster than usual? This can be annoying, especially if family members are left showering in cold water. This can be due to several reasons, including:
- Multiple appliances are using hot water at the same time.
- Sediment is building up in the unit.
- The dip tube is broken, allowing cold water to move to the bottom of the tank to be heated.
- Your water heater is nearing the end of its lifespan.
- Your unit’s thermostat is not working properly.
What Does My AC Smell Like Vinegar?
If your air conditioner smells like vinegar, it can be due to numerous factors, including:
- Mold and bacteria growth.
- Dirty air filters.
- Blocked condensate drain line.
- Refrigerant leak.
Why Does My Heater Smell Like Burning Plastic?
If you notice a burning plastic odor coming from your heater, it can signal that an object—such as a wrapper, debris, or even a household item (like your kids’ toys)—is in the heater. This will melt while the furnace runs, causing a burning smell. Our technicians recommend shutting off the system and trying to remove the object. You should also call for professional services.
Where Should I Install Motion Sensor Lights Around My Property?
Motion sensor lights are essential to protecting your house or building. Installing them in dark areas, by all doors and windows, and near the garage can help deter intruders and provide light in convenient areas to help prevent slips and falls.
Does My Generator Need Repairs?
There are vital signs to watch for that can indicate you need standby generator repairs. Our electricians recommend watching for:
- If there are signs of a leak.
- If it is low in coolant.
- If there is no fuel, or if fuel is leaking.
- If the battery is dead or malfunctioning.
- If the unit is not turning on correctly.
Why is my AC not blowing cold air anymore?
There could be a few reasons why your AC is no longer blowing cold air. It might be due to a mechanical or electrical issue with your home’s heating or cooling system. Here are some steps you can take to troubleshoot the problem:
- 1. Check the Air Filter: Ensure that your furnace’s air filter is clean and free of dirt and debris. A clogged filter can restrict airflow and reduce cooling efficiency.
- 2. Verify the Breaker: Make sure that the circuit breaker for your air conditioner is turned on. Sometimes, the breaker can trip and cut power to the AC unit.
- 3. Reset the Furnace: You can try resetting your furnace by turning off the switch located on the side of the furnace. This switch looks like a regular light switch.
Why is my AC making loud grinding or screeching noises?
If your AC is making loud grinding or screeching noises, it is likely due to a mechanical issue with your outdoor unit. Here are some steps you can take to troubleshoot the problem:
- 1. Turn Off the AC Circuit Breaker: Ensure your safety by switching off the AC circuit breaker before inspecting the unit.
- 2. Inspect the Outdoor Unit: Go to your outdoor air conditioner and visually inspect it. Check the fan on top to ensure nothing is physically stuck in it. Also, examine the cooling fins on the side of the AC for any debris.</li
- 3. Remove Debris: If you find any debris, carefully remove it. This might resolve the noise issue.
If the noise persists after these steps, it is time to call LeBrun Electric, Heating & Cooling.The problem could be more significant and require professional repair.
Why does my heat smell like something burning when I turn my furnace on for the first time this year?
The burning smell you experience when you first turn on your furnace is usually caused by dust and debris that have accumulated on the heat exchanger during the time the furnace was not in use. This smell is very common and typically dissipates within an hour or so.
However, if the smell intensifies, gets worse, or persists, it is time to call LeBrun Electric, Heating & Cooling. The problem could be more significant and may require professional repair.
How often am I supposed to replace my furnace filter?
A furnace filter should be replaced several times a year to ensure optimal performance. The general rule of thumb is to replace the filter based on its thickness:
1-inch filter: Replace every month
4-inch filter: Replace every 4 months
However, it’s important to check your filter regularly and replace it whenever it appears dirty. Dirty filters can cause a variety of issues with both your furnace and AC, leading to unnecessary wear and tear and potentially premature system failure.
What type of furnace filter should I put in my system?
Furnace filters come in many different shapes and sizes. For the size, you can replace it
like-for-like with the old filter. The old filter will have dimensions printed on it. If the filter
doesn’t fit properly, you can check the nomenclature on the return drop, which should
have the dimensions of your furnace filter plainly stamped or written on it.
As for the type of filter, there are several options. One common type is the MERV filter.
MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value, a rating system that measures how
well an air filter can remove airborne particles and pollutants from the air. The rating
ranges from 1 to 20, based on the smallest particle the filter can trap, measured in
microns (μm). Filters with higher MERV ratings are better at trapping specific types of
particles and improving indoor air quality.
If you are looking to not only improve the performance of your system but also enhance
your home’s overall well-being and health, consider calling LeBrun Electric, Heating &
Cooling to inquire about getting an electronic air cleaning filter. These filters are the
most efficient at removing airborne particles and allow for optimal airflow in your home.
How can I reduce my energy bills?
You can reduce your energy bills in several ways when it comes to your furnace and AC:
1. Keep Units Clean: Ensure both your furnace and AC units are clean. This means regularly replacing your furnace filter and keeping the cooling fins on your air conditioner free from dirt and debris.
2. Regular Maintenance: Have your system tuned up twice a year. Regular maintenance ensures the cleanliness of the units and checks that the mechanical and electrical components are operating at their peak performance.
3. Upgrade Your System: Consider updating your furnace and AC. Older systems often operate at lower efficiencies, sometimes as low as 80%. Modern systems can achieve up to 97% efficiency with advanced blower motors, reducing both electrical and gas bills. Similarly, older AC systems often run at a single stage, meaning they operate at full power all the time. Newer systems
can modulate their output, using only as much power as needed, which can result in significant savings.
For further assistance, call LeBrun Electric, Heating & Cooling to discuss the best options
for upgrading your system and optimizing your energy efficiency.
Why is there water under my furnace?
Water under your furnace can come from several different components. Here are some
potential reasons and solutions:
1. Summer AC Issues: If you notice water pooling during the summer, your AC might be having trouble cooling your home. When the AC has issues, the indoor evaporator coil can create condensation that freezes and then melts when the AC turns off. This water should go into a drain system, but if the drain system is clogged with dirt or debris, the water can pool under your furnace. If you have access to your drainage system, you can try running a snake or a clothes hanger through the drain line on the exterior of the unit to clear the clog. If this doesn’t work, it’s time to call LeBrun Electric, Heating & Cooling.
2. Winter Heating Issues: If you see water under your furnace while heating your home, it could indicate a problem with the drainage system for condensation. This system might be failing or clogged. In this case, it’s best to contact LeBrun Electric, Heating & Cooling for professional help.