Ensure your air conditioning stays safe from power surges.

Invest in a high-quality surge protector from Sean McCutcheon's Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. It could save you hundreds of dollars in repair or replacement costs.

What is a surge protector?

It's a device designed to shield electronic equipment from sudden voltage spikes and electrical surges. These surges, which are abnormal increases in electrical current, can inflict damage on wiring and electronics.

Just like computers and televisions, your HVAC system is susceptible to these power surges. Surge protectors are often mandated by building codes for new HVAC installations because of the potential for significant damage to these expensive systems.

Power surges can stem from various sources, but they often arise during thunderstorms and severe weather conditions, primarily due to lightning strikes or when utility companies reset circuits after outages. When lightning strikes a power line, it generates a potent surge that can travel through the electrical grid, potentially causing damage or even power disruptions. Additionally, damaged or faulty power lines can lead to sudden increases in voltage, impacting appliances and connected equipment.

How can power surges affect your HVAC system?

It all depends on the electrical components. When a voltage spike or transient surge happens, these components face a sudden increase in voltage.

Such surges can lead to overheating of the electrical parts, potentially causing damage or system failure. In severe cases, the damage inflicted by a power surge may be irreversible. It's crucial to consult a licensed HVAC contractor to assess the extent of any damage and whether repairs are feasible.

Here are potential outcomes for your HVAC system due to a power surge:

1. Compressor Failure: The compressor, often the priciest component, is particularly susceptible to damage from power surges. If it fails, the entire system might require replacement.
2. Electrical Fires: Although rare, power surges can occasionally trigger electrical fires, especially in older or poorly maintained systems. Such fires can cause significant damage to both the HVAC system and your home.
3. Thermostat Damage: The thermostat plays a crucial role in HVAC operation. Damage from a power surge may necessitate its replacement.
4. Motor Damage: The motor, another vital component, is also vulnerable to damage from power surges. If affected, it may need replacement.

Protecting your HVAC system with surge protectors is a wise investment, potentially preventing costly damage and ensuring reliable performance.

Considering whether to invest in an HVAC surge protector? Absolutely worth it! Here are the advantages:

1. Protects Your Investment and Saves Money: Your HVAC system is a significant investment. A power surge can inflict substantial damage, leading to expensive repairs. With a surge protector, you prevent these costs and ensure your system remains operational, extending its lifespan and saving you money in the long run.
2. Increases Your Comfort: Your HVAC system is crucial for maintaining a comfortable environment at home or in your business. Protecting it with a surge protector means you won't risk losing heating or cooling capabilities due to surge-related damage.
3. Ensures Your Safety: Power surges pose a fire hazard, potentially endangering your household. By installing a surge protector, you mitigate this risk and enhance safety for yourself and your family. It’s a vital precautionary measure for protecting both your property and your loved ones.

Have Sean McCutcheon's Air Conditioning and Heating install your HVAC surge protector.

Your comfort and safety are our priorities, and we're committed to safeguarding your investment. Our team provides expert installation services, ensuring you get the right surge protector for your system, and that it's installed correctly.

When it comes to replacing your old air conditioning system in the (usually) balmy Sarasota area, you can turn that old “get it while it’s hot” idiom right on its head…

Here in the Suncoast, heating and air conditioning companies are less busy in the winter months, so if you’re about ready for a new HVAC system, or you’ve been putting off some much-needed ductwork, take advantage of the relatively rare cold weather we’ve been having, and save yourself some money!

If your HVAC system is over 15 years old (approaching the end of its lifespan) replacing before it quits on you on the hottest day of the year (because that’s when it will go), means you won’t get stuck with expensive emergency repair or replacement costs, and you’ll save money on your electric bills because you'll have a far more efficient air conditioning system installed, before the dog days arrive.

Installing a new HVAC system in the winter also means more flexible scheduling options and you’ll save with our winter labor rates because our guys won’t have to work in a 120-degree attic!

As a bonus, YOU won’t have to suffer in the heat, while the work gets done…

Call 941-921-7208 for a Free Estimate, and step into summer with complete peace of mind!

Believe it or not, Florida Winters can put your HVAC system through the wringer.

One day it’s in the high 80s and the next you’re cranking up the heat and piling on the blankets. Make sure your AC system is ready for the Florida Winter Workout by following these easy steps:

1. Make sure your air filter is clean.

Dirty air filters affect your indoor air quality and they force your AC to work harder than it needs to. If you haven’t changed your air filter in a while, now would be a great time to do so.

2. Program your thermostat for the “Heat” setting.

When switching from the “Cool” setting to the “Heat” setting, make sure you set the thermostat to a temperature that will provide comfort as well as energy savings and, if you’re ever tempted to use the “Em Heat” setting, read our What is Emergency Heat? blog first.

3. Schedule a maintenance visit.

Regular preventive AC maintenance is the best way to ensure trouble-free operation and peak performance throughout the year. Our maintenance agreements include two 32+ point inspections per year and our maintenance agreement customers enjoy 15% discount on any service need that may arise during the contract year, after-hours service calls billed at our non-emergency rate, and discounts on all system replacements. Click here to learn more about our maintenance agreements.