[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":37},["ShallowReactive",2],{"$fl3XRMmhGk76kcybTzCjgA9gOwM0KxxYTIvc0WTYMpK4":3},{"post":4,"relatedPosts":14},{"category":5,"date":6,"html":7,"image":8,"readingMinutes":9,"slug":10,"sourceUrl":11,"summary":12,"title":13},"Cooling","2022-09-06","\u003Cp>As energy efficiency becomes more and more prevalent in society, you may notice the abbreviation SEER. This stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio and relates to your HVAC system and a rating which expresses the cooling efficiency of your AC and heat pump in a typical season.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>At James Plumbing and Heating, we work with home and business owners across Santa Fe to ensure your HVAC unit is in good working order. Part of this diagnosis comes from the SEER rating.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>A SEER rating tells us so much more than just how efficient your HVAC system is running. It points out issues with your unit, reasons for rises in your energy bill, and more.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>Here, we’ll talk a bit about the SEER rating, what it is, how it’s calculated, and why it matters.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch2>Why Does SEER Matter for my HVAC System?\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\u003Cp>The SEER rating is a measurement of cooling efficiency, both for your AC unit and heat pump. The higher your rating, the more efficient your HVAC system. This is important because the more efficient your system is, the less you pay for:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>Monthly energy bills\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>HVAC repairs\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>Additional heating or cooling tools (fans, mobile heaters, etc.)\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\n\u003Cp>Having an HVAC system in good working order ensures comfort year-round. A high SEER rating is worth investing in.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch2>How Does a SEER Rating Work?\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\u003Cp>The SEER rating measures HVAC efficiency based on temperature and other factors. You can compare this to the fuel efficiency of a vehicle. Maybe your SUV gets great fuel efficiency driving on a highway, but the rate lowers when idling.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>Your HVAC system could have higher cooling efficiency in the late spring and early autumn compared to summer and winter. It works harder during hot and cold months and therefore takes longer to cool down, reducing efficiency.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch2>What is a Good SEER Rating?\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\u003Cp>There is no typical SEER rating for a well-maintained HVAC system. It depends entirely on your system and can range anywhere between 13-21. Some of the factors to consider when you choose a unit and SEER rating include:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>Home size\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>Type of ductwork\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>Local climate\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\n\u003Cp>There’s nothing wrong with having a 14 rating if you live in a small one-bedroom apartment and don’t use AC or heat often. Similarly, it might be worthwhile to purchase a system with an 18 rating or above if you live in a large home and run the unit regularly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch2>Does the SEER Rating Change with Use?\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\u003Cp>Unfortunately, even the most efficient HVAC systems with SEER ratings of 14 and above will deplete over time. Efficiency depends on various factors, including:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>Age\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>General wear and tear\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>Regular maintenance\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>Use of stock parts during repair\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>Regular cleaning\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\n\u003Cp>When your HVAC system is damaged or filters get clogged, it works harder. When the system works harder, it takes longer to cool. This limits the overall efficiency, even if you have a unit that was once top of the line.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch2>Locating Your HVAC SEER Rating\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\u003Cp>One of the questions we frequently get at James Plumbing and Heating is how to find the SEER rating on a unit. New systems come with an energy guide sticker. Usually, this is a yellow and black sticker with a SEER number.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>Older machines or resale units might have the specs in another area. Whatever the case, the SEER rating resembles a product number. It might start with AC## followed by dashes and numbers. The number following XC is generally the SEER rating.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>Replacement units might include the SEER rating on a building permit, sales slip, or other documentation. If you know the year, make and model of your unit, you can also contact the manufacturer directly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch2>Contact James Plumbing and Heating to Learn More\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\u003Cp>If you live in Santa Fe and are looking for the best SEER-rated HVAC system for your home, James Plumbing and Heating is here to help. Our experienced staff are constantly watching the changes and evolution in HVAC technology. We can help you break down the differences in each unit and SEER rating and how they might benefit your home.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>Being a local business, it’s important to us that our clients receive an honest and custom assessment for SEER ratings. It’s better to have a rating that fits your home and lifestyle than spend extra you don’t need to spend.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Ca href=\"\u002Fcontact\">Call or visit us online today\u003C\u002Fa> for a diagnosis of your HVAC system and SEER rating.\u003C\u002Fp>","\u002Fimg\u002Fblog\u002Fwhat-does-a-seer-rating-mean.webp",4,"what-does-a-seer-rating-mean","","As energy efficiency becomes more and more prevalent in society, you may notice the abbreviation SEER. This stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio and relates to your HVAC system and a rating which…","What Does a SEER Rating Mean?",[15,23,30],{"category":5,"date":16,"html":17,"image":18,"readingMinutes":19,"slug":20,"sourceUrl":11,"summary":21,"title":22},"2025-06-14","\u003Cp>As summer temperatures rise in Santa Fe, your air conditioner works hard to keep your home comfortable. But running it nonstop can lead to high energy bills and unnecessary wear on your system. At James' Plumbing & Heating, we want to help you stay cool—without overworking your AC. Here are our top tips.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>1. \u003Cstrong>Use Ceiling Fans Wisely\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>Fans don’t cool the air, but they circulate it to help your body feel cooler. Set them to spin counterclockwise in the summer to push cool air down.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>2. \u003Cstrong>Block Out the Sun\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>Keep blinds or curtains closed during the hottest parts of the day, especially on south- and west-facing windows. Blackout shades or thermal curtains can make a big difference.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>3. \u003Cstrong>Avoid Heat-Producing Activities During the Day\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>Running the oven, stove, dishwasher, or dryer during the day adds heat to your home. Try cooking in the evening or using outdoor grills and air-dry laundry when possible.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>4. \u003Cstrong>Seal Air Leaks\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>Air escaping through gaps around windows and doors makes your AC work harder. Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal leaks and keep cool air inside.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>5. \u003Cstrong>Maintain Proper Insulation\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>Good insulation isn’t just for winter. It also helps keep hot air out during the summer months.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>6. \u003Cstrong>Program Your Thermostat\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>Use a programmable or smart thermostat to adjust temperatures while you're away. Setting it a few degrees higher when no one is home can save energy without sacrificing comfort.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>7. \u003Cstrong>Schedule Regular AC Maintenance\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>A well-maintained air conditioner runs more efficiently and is less likely to break down. Change filters regularly and have your system professionally inspected at least once a year.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Need a Hand With Summer Cooling?\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>Whether you need a tune-up or advice on energy-saving upgrades, James' Plumbing & Heating is here to help you stay cool all summer long.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Call \u003Ca href=\"tel:5054737148\">505-473-7148\u003C\u002Fa> or schedule an appointment online today!\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fp>","\u002Fimg\u002Fblog\u002Fhow-to-keep-your-home-cool-without-overworking-your-ac.jpeg",2,"how-to-keep-your-home-cool-without-overworking-your-ac","As summer temperatures rise in Santa Fe, your air conditioner works hard to keep your home comfortable. But running it nonstop can lead to high energy bills and unnecessary wear on your system. At James'…","How to Keep Your Home Cool Without Overworking Your AC",{"category":5,"date":24,"html":25,"image":26,"readingMinutes":19,"slug":27,"sourceUrl":11,"summary":28,"title":29},"2025-06-01","\u003Cp>In dry climates like Santa Fe, swamp coolers (also known as evaporative coolers) are a popular alternative to traditional air conditioning. But are they the right choice for your home? At James' Plumbing & Heating, we help homeowners make informed decisions about their cooling systems. Here's what you need to know.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>What Is a Swamp Cooler?\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>A swamp cooler uses a fan to pull hot, dry air through water-saturated pads. As the air passes through, it evaporates the water and cools down before circulating through your home.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Benefits of Swamp Coolers\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Energy Efficiency:\u003C\u002Fstrong> Swamp coolers use significantly less electricity than traditional AC systems\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Lower Operating Costs:\u003C\u002Fstrong> With fewer moving parts and less power consumption, they’re generally cheaper to run and maintain\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Eco-Friendly Cooling:\u003C\u002Fstrong> Uses water instead of refrigerants\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Fresh Air Flow:\u003C\u002Fstrong> Constantly pulls in outside air instead of recycling indoor air\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\n\u003Ch3>Limitations to Consider\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Climate Dependent:\u003C\u002Fstrong> They work best in dry climates—less effective in high humidity\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Open Window Requirement:\u003C\u002Fstrong> You’ll need open windows or vents for proper airflow\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Seasonal Maintenance:\u003C\u002Fstrong> Units must be winterized to prevent damage during cold months\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\n\u003Ch3>Swamp Cooler vs. Traditional AC\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cfigure>\u003Ctable>\u003Ctbody>\u003Ctr>\u003Cth>Feature\u003C\u002Fth>\u003Cth>Swamp Cooler\u003C\u002Fth>\u003Cth>Traditional AC\u003C\u002Fth>\u003C\u002Ftr>\u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>Energy Use\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>Low\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>High\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>Best for Humid Areas\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>No\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>Yes\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>Cost to Operate\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>Low\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>Moderate to High\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>Maintenance Needs\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>Seasonal (wet pads, winterization)\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>Regular (filters, refrigerant checks)\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\u003C\u002Ftbody>\u003C\u002Ftable>\u003C\u002Ffigure>\n\n\u003Ch3>Is a Swamp Cooler Right for You?\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>A swamp cooler may be a great fit if:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>You live in a dry climate (like Santa Fe)\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>You're looking to reduce your energy bills\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>You prefer eco-conscious home systems\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\n\u003Ch3>Need Help Installing or Servicing Your Swamp Cooler?\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>James' Plumbing & Heating specializes in swamp cooler installation, startup, shutdown, and maintenance. Whether you’re looking to switch from AC or need seasonal service, we’ve got you covered.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Call \u003Ca href=\"tel:5054737148\">505-473-7148\u003C\u002Fa> or book your swamp cooler service online today!\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fp>","\u002Fimg\u002Fblog\u002Fis-a-swamp-cooler-right-for-my-home.jpeg","is-a-swamp-cooler-right-for-my-home","In dry climates like Santa Fe, swamp coolers (also known as evaporative coolers) are a popular alternative to traditional air conditioning. But are they the right choice for your home? At James' Plumbing &…","Is a Swamp Cooler Right for My Home?",{"category":5,"date":31,"html":32,"image":33,"readingMinutes":19,"slug":34,"sourceUrl":11,"summary":35,"title":36},"2025-03-21","\u003Cp>It’s a hot day in Santa Fe, and instead of a refreshing blast of cool air, your AC is blowing warm air. What gives? At James' Plumbing & Heating, we know how frustrating this can be. Here are the most common reasons your AC might be underperforming—and what you can do about it.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>1. \u003Cstrong>Incorrect Thermostat Settings\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>Before assuming the worst, double-check your thermostat. Make sure:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>It’s set to “Cool” mode (not just “Fan”)\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>The temperature is set lower than the current room temp\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\u003Cli>The batteries are working (if applicable)\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\n\u003Ch3>2. \u003Cstrong>Dirty Air Filter\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>A clogged air filter restricts airflow, which can cause your system to overheat and blow warm air.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Fix:\u003C\u002Fstrong> Replace your air filter if it looks dirty—it’s a simple and affordable fix that makes a big difference.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>3. \u003Cstrong>Refrigerant Leak\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>Low refrigerant levels mean your system can’t absorb and remove heat effectively.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Fix:\u003C\u002Fstrong> This isn’t a DIY repair. If you suspect a leak, call a licensed HVAC technician to inspect and recharge your system.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>4. \u003Cstrong>Dirty or Blocked Condenser Unit\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>Your outdoor AC unit (the condenser) needs clear airflow to release heat. If it’s clogged with dirt, leaves, or debris, it can’t do its job.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Fix:\u003C\u002Fstrong> Turn off the power and gently hose off the unit. Trim plants and clear debris from around the condenser.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>5. \u003Cstrong>Electrical Issues\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>Sometimes the indoor unit is running, but the outdoor condenser isn’t due to a tripped breaker or faulty wiring.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Fix:\u003C\u002Fstrong> Check your circuit breaker for any tripped switches. If the problem persists, call an HVAC pro.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>6. \u003Cstrong>Frozen Evaporator Coil\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>Restricted airflow, dirty coils, or refrigerant issues can cause the indoor evaporator coil to freeze, stopping cold air production.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Fix:\u003C\u002Fstrong> Turn off the system to let it thaw, and call a professional to find and fix the root cause.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Don’t Sweat It—We Can Help\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>If your AC is blowing warm air, and basic troubleshooting doesn’t solve it, give James' Plumbing & Heating a call. Our HVAC experts will quickly diagnose the issue and get your cool air flowing again.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Contact us at \u003Ca href=\"tel:5054737148\">505-473-7148\u003C\u002Fa> or book your AC service online today!\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fp>","\u002Fimg\u002Fblog\u002Fwhy-is-my-ac-blowing-warm-air.jpeg","why-is-my-ac-blowing-warm-air","It’s a hot day in Santa Fe, and instead of a refreshing blast of cool air, your AC is blowing warm air. What gives? At James' Plumbing & Heating, we know how frustrating this can be. Here are the most common…","Why Is My AC Blowing Warm Air?",1787213981522]