Polar Bear Air Conditioning & Heating Inc. Blog: Posts Tagged ‘Washington’

What Is High Velocity Air Conditioning?

Monday, August 4th, 2025
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When you’re looking for efficient, effective cooling in a home that lacks ductwork or has limited space for bulky HVAC systems, high velocity air conditioning may be the perfect solution. Unlike traditional central air conditioning systems, high-velocity systems use small, flexible tubing instead of large metal ducts.

This makes them ideal for retrofitting into older homes, condos, or buildings with architectural restrictions. If you’re considering high velocity air conditioning installation in Washington, DC, it’s worth understanding how this system works and what sets it apart.

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Should I Have My Indoor Air Quality Tested?

Monday, July 21st, 2025

If you’ve ever noticed that your allergies seem worse indoors, or if you regularly suffer from headaches, fatigue, or respiratory issues at home, your indoor air may be to blame. The truth is, the air inside our homes is often more polluted than the air outside—especially in urban areas. That’s why many homeowners are now asking an important question: Should I have my indoor air quality tested? 

The answer, in many cases, is yes—especially if you’re serious about creating a healthy, comfortable living space. It’ll help you know what steps to take to improve your indoor air quality in Washington, DC.

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Do I Have an AC Refrigerant Leak? Symptoms and Solutions

Monday, July 7th, 2025
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When your air conditioner isn’t cooling your home like it used to, a refrigerant leak could be the hidden culprit. Refrigerant is the lifeblood of your AC system—it absorbs heat from inside your home and releases it outside. If your system develops a leak, it loses the very thing it needs to keep you cool.

Unfortunately, refrigerant leaks are not DIY fixes. If you suspect one, it’s essential to call in qualified HVAC professionals—like our expert team—to handle the problem safely and correctly. Do you need AC refrigerant leak repair in Washington, DC? Let’s take a closer look.

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Is a Smart Thermostat Worth It?

Monday, June 23rd, 2025
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When it comes to home comfort and energy efficiency, small upgrades can make a big difference—and a smart thermostat is one of the smartest investments a homeowner can make. According to the EPA’s ENERGY STAR program, homeowners can save up to $180 a year by using a properly programmed smart thermostat. If you’re still relying on an old manual or basic programmable thermostat, it may be time to consider how smart thermostat installation in Washington, DC can improve your comfort, convenience, and monthly utility bills.

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Don’t Forget Twice-a-Year Heat Pump Maintenance!

Monday, June 9th, 2025
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Heat pumps are some of the most efficient HVAC systems on the market, capable of both heating and cooling your home year-round. But because they work hard all year long, they also require more frequent maintenance than traditional heating or cooling systems. It’s essential to schedule professional heat pump maintenance in Washington, DC twice a year—once in the spring before cooling season, and again in the fall before heating season begins.

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What Makes Some AC Units So Much More Efficient?

Monday, May 26th, 2025
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If it seems like some air conditioners today are far more efficient than others, you’re absolutely right. Over the past decade, air conditioning technology has improved dramatically. Today’s high-efficiency AC systems are engineered to cool your home more effectively while using less energy—and the savings can really add up.

If your current system is more than 10 years old, even if it ran great when new, it’s likely far less efficient than what’s available now. Perhaps it’s time for a new air conditioner installation in Washington, DC. Here’s a look at some of the biggest innovations making modern air conditioners so much more efficient than their predecessors.

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Is That Noise Coming From Your Air Conditioner?

Monday, May 12th, 2025
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Your air conditioner should be felt, not heard. While a soft hum is normal during operation, any strange or sudden noises can be a sign that something’s wrong. Ignoring these sounds could lead to costly damage, reduced system performance, or even a full breakdown. If your AC has started to get noisy, don’t wait—schedule professional central air conditioning repair in Washington, DC as soon as possible.

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HVAC Rescue: Ductwork Edition

Monday, April 14th, 2025
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When homeowners think about heating and cooling efficiency, the first things that come to mind are thermostats, filters, or the age of their HVAC unit. But there’s a silent culprit lurking in the background that could be costing you hundreds of dollars a year and compromising the air you breathe: your ductwork. What’s the solution? Ductwork fabrication in Washington, DC.

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How Many Air Handlers Can One Heat Pump Have?

Monday, March 3rd, 2025
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A ductless mini split with a heat pump is the perfect home climate solution for many people in our area. But if this would be a jump for you—if perhaps you’ve had window AC units, or a central system whose ductwork is now in poor condition—no doubt you have questions. One question we frequently hear is about how many air handlers one heat pump can support, and how many one home needs. Let’s consider.

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Pros and Cons of Central Air in Washington, DC

Monday, August 21st, 2023

Central AC remains to be one of the most-used forms of air conditioning in the US, even with the rise of heat pumps and ductless cooling systems. There are benefits and drawbacks to going with central, so if you’re still trying to figure out what will work best for you, let’s talk about central air installation in Washington, DC and where it stands to benefit you.

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