An unpleasant odor coming from your HVAC is annoying, but it can also be a sign of an underlying issue with your system that can negatively affect both your home’s indoor air quality and your health.

What can cause a musty smell from your HVAC? Usually, the culprit for the musty, dank odor from your HVAC system is mold and mildew, which thrive in dark, moist places. We’ll look at some ways you can identify problem spots and how you can address the issue effectively to breathe cleaner, fresher air.

Let’s discuss the causes and solutions for unpleasant odors coming from your HVAC.

Musty HVAC Smells and Health Hazards

Mold and mildew spores, dust and other pathogens circulated by HVAC systems cause poor indoor air quality that can exacerbate allergies, asthma and other respiratory conditions. Prolonged exposure may lead to chronic issues like sinus infections or bronchitis. Children and elderly individuals, and those who are immunocompromised, are particularly at risk.

Common Causes of Musty HVAC

• Dirty Evaporator Coil – Your AC unit’s evaporator coil, which cools warm air, tends to attract dust and moisture, creating an excellent environment for mold and mildew growth. Signs of a problem include weak airflow and ice buildup on the coil.
• Clogged Condensate Drain Line – Moisture from the evaporator coil drains through a tube called a condensate drain line. If it’s clogged by dirt or algae, stagnant water will puddle underneath it, leading to mold and mildew growth and odors.
• Leaky Air Ducts – Leaks in ducts located in attics or crawl spaces can pull in humid, mold-spore-filled air, contaminating your HVAC system and circulating musty smells throughout your home.
• Dirty Air Filters – A clogged air filter restricts airflow, trapping excess moisture and the organic debris that mold feeds on. This can cause odors when the HVAC starts up.
• Excess Moisture in Ducts/Vents – High humidity levels and condensation in your ductwork can create a constantly damp environment, encouraging mold, mildew and microbial growth.

Practical DIY HVAC Odor Solutions

• Replace Air Filters – A good rule of thumb is to change the air filter in your AC unit every 1–3 months. However, if you have pets, a lot of foot traffic in your home, or if it’s a dusty environment, you may need to replace it more often.
• Clean the Condensate Drain Line – Make sure your evaporator drain line is free of obstructions. For extra measure, pour some bleach through it to kill mold and mildew spores, and bacteria.
• Use Baking Soda – Baking soda is a great odor absorber. Place an open box in ducts to neutralize odors, similar to deodorizing a refrigerator.
• Seal Duct Leaks – Use foil tape or mastic sealant, available at hardware stores, to seal up around seams and holes to prevent humid air from entering the system.
• Clean Evaporator Coils – Remove any ice buildup and apply a commercial coil cleaner to remove dust and debris along with spores. Coils are fragile, so be careful to avoid damaging them.

How to Keep Your HVAC Smelling Fresh

• Schedule Annual Maintenance – The best way to keep your HVAC in tip-top condition is to have a yearly inspection and routine maintenance performed by a professional. An HVAC technician will clean your coils, check refrigerant levels and inspect your ductwork, among other things.
• Control Humidity – Preventing moisture buildup will help prevent mold and mildew growth. Use a dehumidifier to keep indoor humidity between 30–50%.
• Upgrade Filters – Opt for HEPA filters to capture smaller particles and reduce organic debris. They’re a bit more expensive but worth it, especially for people with allergies or respiratory issues.
• Install UV Air Purifiers – These UV Air Purifier systems kill mold spores and bacteria in ducts and will greatly improve your indoor air quality.
• Ensure Proper Ventilation – Use exhaust fans in bathrooms/kitchens to reduce dust and moisture accumulation.

When to Call a Professional HVAC Technician

If you’re still getting musty, foul odors emanating from your HVAC system after you’ve performed all the routine maintenance outlined above and taken the preventive measures, it’s time to request the assistance of your local heating and air conditioning contractor.

This is especially true if you’re smelling a sweet chemical odor, which could indicate a refrigerant leak, or if you see visible mold and mildew in your vents or near the indoor unit. They’ll be able to do a deep cleaning of your system, install UV germicidal lamps if necessary, and repair any damaged or malfunctioning components that could be contributing to the smell. An inspection and routine maintenance by a licensed professional will also keep your warranties in good order if you have to file a claim.

Musty HVAC: A Warning Sign You Shouldn’t Ignore

A musty HVAC smell is a red flag for moisture and mold issues that demand prompt attention. While DIY fixes can address minor problems, persistent odors often require professional intervention. Regular maintenance and humidity control are key to ensuring your home’s indoor air remains fresh and safe.

If you’re still wondering what can cause a musty smell from your HVAC and what to do about it, trust the experts at Apex Air. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Does homeowner insurance cover HVAC? That’s a question we often get from our customers, and the answer is yes in most situations. After all, your furnace and central air are an integral and essential part of your home.

However, whether standard homeowner’s insurance will cover the cost of damage to your HVAC unit due to electrical problems is another matter. It’s a gray area that depends on how the damage was caused and other factors.

We’ll take a look at when your insurance company will likely approve a claim for repairing or replacing the unit after electrical damage, and the situations where they likely will not. We’ll also go over the basics of homeowner’s insurance and filing a claim for HVAC damage.

Understanding Home Insurance Basics: Types and Exclusions

Home insurance policies typically include several types of coverage, including:

• Dwelling coverage: Protects the structural elements of your house.
• Personal property coverage: Covers your belongings and items inside your home.
• Liability coverage. Protects you if someone gets injured on your property.
• Additional living expenses: Pays the costs of temporary relocation due to damage to your dwelling.

However, standard homeowner’s policies also come with exclusions. Common exclusions include damage caused by:

• Normal wear and tear
• Lack of regular maintenance and upkeep
• Gradual damage like slow leaks and rust that could have been prevented or repaired
• Certain natural disasters (e.g., floods, earthquakes)

When You’re Likely Covered For HVAC Damage Caused by Electrical Problems

Your home insurance will probably pay for HVAC repair or replacement due to electrical problems in the following circumstances:

Lightning Strikes

If lightning directly hits your HVAC system or causes a power surge that damages it, most policies will cover the repair or replacement. More on power surges later.

Fire Damage

An electrical fire that damages your HVAC system will typically be covered under standard policies.

Falling Objects

If a falling tree or other object somehow causes electrical damage to your outdoor AC unit, it will usually be covered.

Vandalism

Intentional damage to your HVAC’s electrical components will be included in most policies.

Sudden and Accidental Damage

If a sudden electrical malfunction occurs that’s not due to wear and tear, neglect, or DIY repairs gone wrong, some policies may approve a claim.

When You’re Likely NOT Covered: HVAC Damage Caused by Electrical Problems

Knowing when does homeowner insurance cover HVAC is important, but knowing when it won’t is possibly more so. There are several situations where your insurance company will probably deny your claim for HVAC repair or replacement due to electrical issues:

• Wear and Tear
  If your HVAC system fails due to old age or normal use, it’s not covered.
• Lack of Maintenance
  If the electrical problem is due to neglect or poor maintenance, your claim will likely be denied.
• Manufacturer Defects
  These are typically covered by warranties, not home insurance.
• Gradual Damage
  Slow deterioration of electrical components over time, which would fall under normal wear and tear, won’t be covered.
• Power Company Issues
  If a brownout or blackout of the electrical grid damages your system, it may not be covered unless you have specific endorsements or riders.

Who Pays for Power Surge Damage?

Power surge damage to an HVAC unit can be a gray area in home insurance. Generally:

• If the power surge is caused by a covered hazard such as a lightning strike, your insurance may cover the damage.
• If the surge originates from the power company’s equipment, you’ll probably have to contact them to file a claim for damages.
• For internal surges caused by your own equipment, you’ll likely be responsible unless you have purchased specific additional coverage.

How to File an Insurance Claim for HVAC Damage

If you believe your HVAC damage is probably covered, take these steps to file a claim. Your HVAC contractor will usually help you navigate the process.

1. Document the damage by taking photos and videos of your system.
2. Take reasonable steps to prevent additional damage, but don’t start repairs before the insurance company inspects.
3. Contact your insurance company to report the claim as soon as possible.
4. An insurance adjuster will inspect the damage and estimate repair costs.
5. Obtain repair or replacement quotes from licensed HVAC contractors.
6. Carefully consider the insurance company’s offer before accepting.
7. Remember, if you disagree with the settlement, you can appeal the decision, preferably with the help of an attorney.

If your claim is approved, your insurance company may reimburse you in one of two ways:

• Replacement value: Covers the cost to replace your unit at the time of loss.
• Actual cash value: Reimburses the market value of the unit at the time of loss.

By gaining a thorough understanding of your coverage, you’ll be better prepared to handle unexpected HVAC issues. Remember, if you’re in doubt about your coverage, call your insurance company for clarification.

Does your damaged HVAC need repairs or replacement? Contact the experts at Apex Air and we’ll help you navigate the claims process.

As a homeowner, you can appreciate the important role your HVAC system plays in keeping you and your family comfortable all year round. But if you’re like most people, it’s something that works in the background without much interaction on your part beyond changing it from heat to cool and setting the temperature. It’s out of sight and out of mind, and it’s easy to forget about the importance of HVAC service until something breaks down.

But just like your car, your heating and cooling system needs proper upkeep to provide safe and reliable transportation for many years. There are several benefits of regular HVAC maintenance that go beyond just keeping things running smoothly and dependably that you might not have considered. Let’s take a look at a few of them.

Here’s why HVAC maintenance is important:

Safety Concerns

One of the most important benefits of regular HVAC maintenance is that it helps keep you and your family safe. One of the most dangerous potential hazards is carbon monoxide poisoning. A unit that hasn’t been inspected and regularly maintained can eventually develop cracks in the heat exchangers causing carbon monoxide to leak inside the home.

Another potential concern is an electrical short caused by faulty wiring which can easily lead to a fire. Then there’s the possibility of your HVAC system breaking down during severely hot or cold weather, which can be a risk for the elderly or individuals with health issues. Personal safety is the primary reason why HVAC maintenance is important.

Increased Energy Efficiency

Without proper maintenance, the wear and tear from normal use over time, as well as debris and dust accumulation in the machinery and ductwork, poorly maintained coolant levels, and lack of routine lubrication will make your HVAC system work harder to deliver the same levels of comfort, resulting in higher utility bills. Regular professional maintenance can keep your expenses as low as possible.

Extended HVAC System Lifespan

Your HVAC is one of the primary systems in your home. Modern units are designed to have a long service life, but they will eventually wear out. Buying a new one is expensive, so of course you want to make it last as long as possible. Proper maintenance along with regular professional inspections can identify potential trouble points before they become major problems, helping you to avoid expensive repairs and extending the lifespan of your system.

Keeps Warranties Valid

If your home’s HVAC system is still under warranty, it’s important to remember that many companies will require proof of annual maintenance before they will approve a claim. Your local HVAC contractor will keep records of any service they perform on your system and can provide it to your insurer on request. Detailed maintenance records will also be helpful if you decide to sell your home.

HVAC Maintenance Improves Indoor Air Quality

Clogged air filters and accumulated dust and debris in your duct work can allow harmful airborne particulates to circulate in your indoor environment. These include potentially dangerous allergens and pathogens like dust, pet dander, pollen and bacteria that can cause illness, especially for people with asthma, allergies and other respiratory problems. Keeping your system clean through regular maintenance will greatly improve your indoor air quality.

HVAC Maintenance Can Save On Repair Costs & Energy Use

Keeping your heating and cooling system in good operating condition can save you significant money over time in several ways. One that has already been mentioned is enhanced energy efficiency. Studies have shown that regular HVAC maintenance tasks such as cleaning coils, checking refrigerant levels, and ensuring proper airflow can reduce your electricity and gas usage by as much as 30%.

Another way routine HVAC inspections and maintenance can cut costs is by catching small problems early. By identifying and fixing minor issues before they escalate such as worn-out belts or dirty filters, you can save yourself from emergency repairs and unexpected breakdowns.  This proactive approach ensures your HVAC system runs efficiently and reliably.

Protects Your Home and Wallet With Predictable Budgeting

With a regular maintenance plan, you can better predict and budget for HVAC-related expenses. Instead of facing unexpected repair costs, you can plan for routine maintenance visits and minor repairs, making it easier to manage your home maintenance budget without having to worry about nasty surprises.

Regular inspections and maintenance performed by your local HVAC professional can help prevent costly repairs, lower your utility bills, increase the useful life of your system, and make you and your family more comfortable in your home. By maintaining your HVAC system regularly, you’re not only protecting your investment but also ensuring that your claims will be valid if something does go wrong with your system while it’s still under warranty. And finally, the comfort and security that you and your family will enjoy all year long is the most rewarding reason why HVAC maintenance is important.

When was the last time your system was serviced? Visit our Apex Air website to schedule an appointment and to learn more about our maintenance program.

The temperatures are dropping fast. If you haven’t done it already, now is the time to start thinking about your heating system. It’s one of the most essential components of your house, so you want to make sure it’s in good working condition and ready to provide reliable warmth to your home all winter long.

You should pay close attention to your heating system’s operating characteristics after you turn it on for the first time this season. There are several tell-tale signs to watch out for that indicate you need professional heater maintenance, and still other signs your heating system needs to be replaced. If any of these problems are happening in your home, call your local HVAC contractor to ensure your family stays warm and cozy.

Here are 7 signs that your heating system needs maintenance:

1. An Increase In Energy Bills

One of the most noticeable signs that your heating system needs attention is a sudden increase in your energy bill. There can be legitimate reasons for your furnace to work harder and lead to higher costs, such as unusually cold temperatures, or drafts from damage or renovation. But without such causes, if you’re paying a lot more than last winter at the same rates, your heater may need repair. If, on the other hand, it’s your rates that are going up, consider switching to one of Apex Air’s high-efficiency furnace options.

2. Overdue Heater Maintenance

If your furnace hasn’t been inspected and serviced for over a year, it’s a good idea to schedule a service call now before the cold weather arrives. Your heating system requires regular maintenance and inspection to keep it operating properly and efficiently. This will not only ensure the best performance from your furnace, it will allow for the discovery of minor issues before they become serious ones, extend the lifetime of your system by keeping it lubricated and free of dust and debris.

Manufacturer warranties require proof of annual maintenance to be valid. We offer a service plan that will save you money and ensure your heating system never misses a tune-up.

3. A Yellow Pilot Light

If things are operating properly, the pilot light in your furnace should be a bright blue color.  If your flame is yellow, that could be a sign that your furnace has a carbon monoxide leak. You may also smell gas if this is the case. Because this is a poisonous gas, this should be checked out by an HVAC professional immediately. Due to its flammable nature, you should turn your furnace off as well. If you suspect carbon monoxide, or if you have a very strong gas smell, you should open the windows and get out of the house until it is inspected.

4. The Furnace Is Making Strange Noises

Your furnace will make some noises even when it’s operating normally. You get used to these sounds and usually don’t notice them anymore. But if you start hearing unusual pops, squeaks, creaks, banging or rattling, it’s time to get your furnace inspected and repaired before loose or unlubricated components cause major damage.

5. Slow Heating Performance

While it’s not unusual for your heating system to take a while to increase the temperature inside your home, especially when you’ve just turned it on for the first time of the season, if it’s taking a significant amount of time to reach your temperature setting, it’s a sign that there could be a problem. It’s a good idea to be proactive and have it checked.

6. Furnace Cycling On and Off Frequently

Your furnace should operate in predictable cycles, turning on when the temperature drops below the thermostat setting and off when the desired temperature is reached. Frequent cycling, where the system turns on and off more often than usual, can be caused by overheating, an oversized furnace or thermostat malfunctions.

7. Uneven Home Heating

If you’re experiencing noticeable temperature differences between rooms in your home, your heating system may be struggling to distribute the heat evenly throughout due to blocked ductwork or other problems requiring professional attention.

Have you noticed any of these trouble signs with your heating system? Trust the experts at Apex Air for all of your heating maintenance needs.

Would you be interested in a home comfort solution that will keep you warm in the winter and cool in the summer, allow you to maintain different temperatures in each room in your house, that the government will help you buy and install, and will save you big money on your energy bills? If you said yes, then you need to take a close look at mini-split heat pumps that come in two options: ducted mini-splits and ductless mini-splits.

Heat pumps have always had loyal fans, but in recent years mini-split heat pumps have seen a surge in popularity in the HVAC market, for all the above reasons and more. Read on to learn why both builders and homeowners are increasingly choosing mini-split systems.

Mini-Splits Are Energy Efficient

One of the biggest benefits of ductless mini-split systems is their superior energy efficiency compared to other types of systems. Traditional forced-air HVAC systems lose as much as 30% of the energy they produce through their ductwork as the warm or cold air travels through them, meaning the system has to work harder — and use more energy — to keep the home comfortable. Ductless mini-split systems eliminate this loss by delivering warm or cool air directly into the living spaces.

The energy efficiency of mini-splits is reflected in their high Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) ratings. Many models boast SEER ratings of 20 or higher, far exceeding the efficiency of conventional systems. That translates into significant savings on your energy bill while contributing to sustainability goals. And because of their excellent energy efficiency, mini-split heat pumps qualify for many government grants and rebates, making buying and installing a mini-split one of the most cost-effective HVAC solutions.

Ductless Mini-Splits Provide Flexible Comfort Zoning

Another energy-saving and comfort-enhancing feature of mini-split systems is zoned heating and cooling. With the ability to individually control the temperature settings on the indoor ductless units throughout the home, homeowners can create separate comfort zones. This means you can cool or heat only the rooms you are using while keeping the settings low in others, saving energy and money and increasing comfort. This is in contrast to traditional systems where the temperature is set for the whole house, and can only be controlled in individual rooms by closing vents, an inconvenient and inefficient solution.

Ductless Mini-Splits Are Easy to Install

Installing a ductless mini-split heat pump is much less time-consuming and invasive than a traditional HVAC system since there’s no need to install ductwork throughout the home. This makes them a great choice for retrofitting older homes or adding climate control to new additions. Easy installation also means lower installation costs, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious homeowners. Additionally, the flexibility in placing individual room units allows for creative solutions in homes with limited space or unusual architectural features.

Mini-Split Systems Improve Air Quality

Mini-split systems can significantly improve indoor air quality. By eliminating ductwork, they reduce the accumulation of dust, allergens and other pollutants that can build up and be distributed through the home with traditional forced-air HVAC systems.

Many ductless systems also come equipped with advanced filtration technologies, further increasing their ability to keep the air you breathe clean. This helps to prevent the many health problems that can be caused by poor indoor air quality and is especially beneficial for those with asthma, allergies or other respiratory issues.

Space-Saving Design

The compact design of ductless mini-split systems can be a big advantage for homeowners, especially in homes where space is at a premium. The indoor units can be mounted almost anywhere — on walls, ceilings or floors — providing great flexibility to accommodate different floor plans and furnishings. The space-saving design of mini-split systems allows homeowners to maximize their living spaces while keeping their rooms looking clean and uncluttered.

Mini-Splits Are Quiet

Modern mini-split systems are known for their quiet operation. The compressor, typically the noisiest part of an air conditioning system, is located outside, while the indoor units operate at very low noise levels. This quiet performance is particularly appealing in bedrooms, home offices and other spaces where noise can be a problem.

Mini-Splits Are for Both Heating and Cooling

A modern mini-split system can both heat and cool your home, providing year-round comfort in a single unit. Older models were known to lose some of their efficiency at extreme temps, but new technology has largely eliminated that. Many homeowners in areas that experience extreme temperatures use their mini-split heat pump for most of the year with a backup furnace in the winter to provide an extra layer of comfort security.

As energy costs continue to rise and homeowners become more focused on efficiency and sustainability, the appeal of mini-split systems is likely to grow even more. Advancements in technology, such as improved smart home integration and even higher efficiency ratings, are expected to drive continued high demand in the mini-split market.

Contact Apex Air to learn more about how a ductless mini-split system can work for you.

Getting a good night’s sleep is essential for overall health and wellbeing. While many factors contribute to sleep quality, one of the most important is the physical environment you sleep in, and whether it’s conducive to deep, restorative sleep.

This begs the question, can your home HVAC help you sleep better? Given the role that your heating and cooling system plays in creating your environment by regulating temperature, humidity and indoor air quality, the answer is assuredly yes.

Let’s take a look at the HVAC system’s impact on your sleep and what you can do to optimize it for better rest.

Temperature: Finding the Sweet Spot

If you’ve wondered how can your home HVAC help you sleep better, temperature control is the primary way. The temperature in your bedroom is essential to a comfortable sleeping environment and a good night’s rest. Fluctuating temperature extremes are a recipe for a restless night.

Sleep studies have shown that the ideal sleeping temperature for most people is between 60°F and 67°F. This range helps facilitate the natural drop in core body temperature that occurs as we prepare for sleep.

To achieve optimal temperature control for better sleep, consider these tips:

• Use a programmable thermostat to lower the temperature before bedtime automatically.
• Consider installing zoned heating and cooling for better sleep, such as a mini-split heat pump, to maintain different temperatures in various parts of your home.
• Use breathable bedding materials to help regulate your body temperature as you sleep.

A consistent, cool temperature can help you fall asleep faster and help you avoid waking up in the middle of the night due to feeling too hot or too cold.

Humidity: Balancing Moisture Levels

Humidity levels can also affect sleep comfort. The ideal indoor relative humidity for sleeping is between 30% and 50%. Too much humidity can make you feel hot and sticky, while too little can lead to dry skin and nose and throat irritation. For best humidity management in your home, try these tactics:

• Use a whole-house humidifier or dehumidifier to maintain optimal levels throughout the home. Small, portable units can be used for individual rooms.
• Monitor indoor humidity with a hygrometer. Inexpensive models can be found at most retail and hardware stores.
• Address any sources of excess moisture, such as leaks or poor ventilation.

Proper humidity management can significantly enhance your sleep quality by creating a more comfortable environment and reducing the risk of allergens like dust mites and mold.

Good Air Quality Makes Breathing Easy

Poor indoor air quality due to airborne pollutants, dust and allergens can affect your sleep by causing eye irritation, itchy skin, dry mouth and throat, coughing, sinus problems and other symptoms, as well as triggering allergies, asthma or other respiratory issues. To improve your indoor air quality for better sleep, you should:

• Regularly change your HVAC filters, ideally every one to three months.
• Consider installing a whole-house air purification system.
• Ensure proper ventilation to reduce indoor pollutants.

Noise Control: Minimizing Disruptions

A noisy HVAC system can be an annoying sleep disturber, especially if you’re a light sleeper. The constant hum and sudden thuds of the starts and stops of your heating and cooling system can disrupt your natural sleep cycles and keep you from entering into a deep, restorative sleep. To cut down on HVAC noise for a better night’s rest, you can:

• Schedule a biannual inspection and routine maintenance to ensure proper operation and reduce any unusual noises.
• Consider upgrading to a newer and quieter system if yours is getting old and cranky.
• Use a white noise or nature sounds generator to help mask the noise from your system.

If you’re routinely roused from your sleep by your heating and cooling equipment, talk to your HVAC contractor about noise reduction in your system.

Consistency Is the Key

Keeping temperature and humidity levels constant throughout the night is very important for maintaining a comfortable sleep environment. When these factors fluctuate, it can cause you to wake up often or shift between sleep stages more frequently, ruining any chance for a restful sleep. To help ensure consistency, you should:

• Avoid large temperature changes just before bedtime.
• Use heavy curtains or blinds to minimize hot or cold air coming in from outside.
• Consider installing a smart thermostat that’s capable of learning your temperature preferences and that adjusts accordingly for nighttime.

The Role of Circadian Rhythms

Your biological internal clock, known as circadian rhythms, is regulated by changes in the environment, including temperature. Slightly cooler temperatures in the evening tell your body that it’s time to sleep as part of your natural sleep-wake cycle. To support your body’s natural rhythms and promote sleep, you should gradually lower the temperature in your home an hour or two before bedtime, and use dimmer lighting at the same time to simulate evening and convince your body that it’s time to get some rest.

Can your home HVAC help you sleep better? Yes it can! Contact Apex Air and let us show you how.