RKM Heating and Air Conditioning Blog: Archive for the ‘Air Conditioning’ Category

Is It Possible to Cool the Home at Different Temperatures?

Monday, April 22nd, 2019
Man adjusting a thermostat for zone control systems at home.

Those with central air conditioning systems will inevitably ask themselves this question: How can I cool the rooms of my home at different temperatures?

For example, someone who spends a lot of time in their bedroom might complain they’re too cold. Meanwhile, everyone else in the home feels fine.

A natural response to this might be to close the air register in that room. Although it seems counter-intuitive, this is actually a bad practice—closing the air register increases pressure in the air ducts and AC problems can develop

Instead, what you’re looking for is called “zone control.” This is an HVAC practice of sectioning the home into separate parts, thereby giving you the ability to control the temperature differently. There are a couple of ways that you can go about achieving zone control, and the right AC matters.

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Busting Myths About HVAC Maintenance

Monday, April 8th, 2019
tools

What common myths about AC maintenance should homeowners stop believing?

  • Myth: You only need to change air filters once a year.
    Truth: Change filters every 1–3 months, more often if you have pets, dust, or allergies, to maintain airflow, efficiency, and indoor air quality.
  • Myth: Annual maintenance isn’t necessary.
    Truth: Skipping regular tune‑ups can lead to inefficiency, costly breakdowns, shorter system life, and voided warranties. Annual/pre‑season service catches problems early.
  • Myth: Closing vents in unused rooms saves energy.
    Truth: Blocking airflow disrupts system balance, increases duct pressure, and can cause leaks or coil issues.
  • Myth: Cranking the thermostat heats or cools faster.
    Truth: HVAC systems run at a fixed rate, setting extreme temps only wastes energy and strains the equipment.
  • Myth: Duct tape is fine for sealing HVAC ducts.
    Truth: Use mastic or foil-backed HVAC tape instead. Duct tape degrades over time and allows leaks.

HVAC maintenance is one of the most controversial topics out there in the HVAC industry. Why? Mostly because those who own HVAC systems understand the idea of striving for efficiency: paying the least amount of money for the most amount of output from your system. Likewise, these same people might see maintenance as an unnecessary expense.

Of course, we have to disagree. If your goal is efficiency, maintenance is exactly the kind of thing that you need! We’ll explain why that is by breaking some of the common myths around maintenance.

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How to Find a Good HVAC Contractor

Monday, November 19th, 2018
Three AC service technicians in uniform standing in front of a vehicle lift at a garage.

The internet was supposed to make our lives easier, but it certainly doesn’t make it any easier to find a good HVAC contractor. Reviews, websites, social media, and other online resources just give you too many options.

RKM Heating and Air Conditioning is a family owned hvac company proudly serving the Riverside area. As your trusted partner for HVAC solutions, we offer a comprehensive range of AC services, including repair, maintenance, and installation. With a dedicated team of certified technicians, our experienced technicians are committed to ensuring customer satisfaction on every job.

Despite all of that, we think you can easily spot a good HVAC contractor by looking at some of their services. If they’re able to fulfill any of the following, then you should give them a try:

We provide prompt, professional service and also offer emergency repairs for urgent HVAC issues. Our free estimates include a free estimate as a no-cost, in-person quote for your HVAC needs. As a trusted provider of hvac service in riverside, we are dedicated to serving the Riverside area with reliable solutions for all your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning needs. RKM Heating and Air Conditioning guarantees prompt emergency service for urgent HVAC issues, ensuring that your needs are met without delay.

How do I find a good HVAC contractor for AC service?

  • Look for proper licensing and insurance: ensure they’re accredited and covered to work in your area.
  • Check experience and HVAC reviews: opt for contractors with strong customer feedback and relevant service history.
  • Verify AC-specific certifications: such as EPA refrigerant handling or manufacturer‑level certifications.
  • Ask about services offered and pricing clarity: they should provide a written estimate, outline included tasks, and explain diagnostic fees.
  • Ensure strong customer service and warranties: confirm satisfaction guarantees, maintenance plan options, and clear communication.

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Should I Install My AC with Temperature Zoning?

Monday, October 22nd, 2018

zone-control-houseTemperature zoning can offer you unmatched flexibility and efficiency with your air conditioning and heating. We definitely think that installing it is a good idea. We won’t say “yes,” because it might not be the right decision for you. However, if this is the first air conditioner you’re installing, we believe that you should strongly consider whether you want temperature zoning installed. Regardless of if that’s a “yes” or “no” from you, knowing your options will prevent you from feeling any regret later on down the line.

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Why Does My Air Conditioner Need Refrigerant?

Monday, October 8th, 2018
hvac-technician-recharging-refrigerant

Now, don’t misinterpret that headline. We don’t mean to suggest that your air conditioner needs refrigerant like a car needs gasoline. However, that’s exactly how most homeowners assume it works! But this leaves them vulnerable to some shady practices from less than reputable HVAC contractors.

Don’t worry, though. We’ll clear up all the misconceptions and tell you everything you need to know about refrigerant. And if you’ve ever considered handling these issues yourself, it’s worth reviewing whether DIY AC repairs are actually safe or best left to the pros.

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Some Air Conditioning Symptoms of Bigger Problems

Monday, September 24th, 2018

air-conditioner-repairIs your air conditioner acting weird? Some air conditioner problems are more subtle than others, so we understand why some AC problems go on longer than they have to. Not knowing any better, you might think that the symptom your AC is experiencing will disappear after a few hours. More likely, you end up forgetting about it until it becomes too big of a problem to ignore. In that case, we want to inform you of a few big issues that can save you from having to call for an AC catastrophe.

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3 AC Efficiency Issues That Call for Repairs

Monday, July 2nd, 2018

air-conditioner-repair-technicianWhen you think “AC repair,” you might think of refrigerant leaks, busted fans, and other tell-tale signs that something is terribly wrong with your unit. However, our expertise extends beyond just air conditioning system issues—we specialize in air conditioning heating solutions, providing comprehensive service for air conditioning systems and cooling systems to ensure your comfort year-round. We also offer installation services for new systems, so you can upgrade to a new system for improved comfort and efficiency.

But some AC issues are much subtler. It’s not uncommon that these problems simply go unnoticed by AC owners. All the same, they will need professional attention before becoming a problem. These problems will cause your AC efficiency to suffer, and you might not realize it until you see an increase in your next energy bill. Our commitment to our customers means we always strive to ensure your satisfaction with every service we provide. During diagnostics, we perform a thorough assessment to accurately identify and resolve any issues.

Here are three common efficiency issues that need air conditioning repair in Riverside, CA.

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Why AC Maintenance Is So Important

Monday, June 4th, 2018
Technician in uniform using pliers to perform air conditioning repair on an outdoor AC unit.

Even though modern technology is often viewed with awe and admiration, it’s still prone to error. Air conditioning (AC) systems are especially imperfect, regardless of their quality or the precision of their installation.

At RKM Heating and Air Conditioning, we specialize in preventative services centered around heating and air conditioning systems, offering comprehensive HVAC services that cover both cooling and heating needs for your home. By employing us, you can ensure that the air temperature in your home is always ideal, as RKM Heating and Air Conditioning provides maintenance for all types of HVAC systems with help from professional AC maintenance services. We proactively provide maintenance with a focus on our expertise, comprehensive service steps, and a strong commitment to customer satisfaction during every maintenance visit.

In this article, we discuss 4 reasons why AC maintenance is so important for modern homeowners, emphasizing how preventative care is critical for avoiding undesirable consequences. For more details, see our air conditioner maintenance overview.

Introduction: The Role of AC Maintenance in Your Home

When it comes to keeping your living space comfortable, few things are as essential as a well-functioning air conditioner. Regular air conditioner maintenance is the key to ensuring your air conditioning system delivers cool air efficiently, especially during the hottest months of the year. By taking care of your AC unit, you not only improve its performance and extend its life, but you also reduce the risk of unexpected repairs and high energy costs. For help deciding between AC repair versus maintenance, check our detailed comparison. A properly maintained air conditioning unit helps maintain the desired temperature in your home, keeps your air clean, and ensures your system runs smoothly. AC maintenance is especially important for keeping your home cool during hot weather, ensuring a comfortable environment even in the peak of summer. In this article, we’ll explore why air conditioner maintenance matters, share practical maintenance tips, and explain how regular maintenance can save you money while keeping your home comfortable all year long.

Why Is Regular AC Maintenance Important?

Regular AC maintenance is important because it helps:

  • Improve energy efficiency and lower monthly utility bills
  • Prevent unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs
  • Extend the lifespan of your air conditioning system
  • Maintain consistent cooling and indoor comfort
  • Identify small issues early before they become major problems

Understanding How Your Air Conditioner Works

To truly appreciate the value of air conditioner maintenance, it helps to understand how your air conditioning system operates. At the heart of your AC system are several critical components: the compressor, condenser coils, evaporator coil, and blower motor. The compressor pressurizes the refrigerant, which then travels through the condenser coils in the outdoor unit, releasing heat to the outside air. The cooled refrigerant moves to the indoor evaporator coil, where it absorbs heat from your home’s air, creating that refreshing cool air you rely on. The blower motor then circulates this cooled air through your ductwork and into every room. Each of these parts must function properly for your system to deliver efficient cooling. Regular maintenance ensures that coils stay clean, refrigerant levels remain optimal, and the entire system operates at peak efficiency, preventing heat buildup and keeping your home comfortable. Maintaining your AC filters is also crucial, as dirty filters can reduce system efficiency, increase energy consumption, and negatively impact indoor air quality, especially in areas with high pollen or dust.

Experts recommend two maintenance checks per year, in spring and fall, to ensure your air conditioning unit is ready for peak usage seasons.

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Get Your Air Conditioner Ready for Spring

Monday, January 15th, 2018

air-conditioning-springWinter doesn’t really hit us here in the Inland Empire: not the way it does back east, certainly. But the weather is cooler and pleasant, which means we rarely have the need for our air conditioners during this part of the year. That makes now an excellent time to get your system ready for the spring. Warm weather arrives sooner every year, it seems, and if your air conditioner is ready to go, you can be assured that it will run efficiently all summer long.

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