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A Cool Upgrade: When Your Air Conditioner Just Can’t Keep Up

Heating and Air Conditioning
Cleveland
Heating and Air Conditioning in Cleveland

The Case: Struggling to Stay Cool

A homeowner in Cleveland noticed that despite running the air conditioner non-stop, the house still felt warm and muggy. The existing packaged system was five to ten years old and simply couldn't keep up on the hottest days. After multiple attempts to boost performance—adding refrigerant and running portable fans—the family decided it was time to call in professionals.

HEP technicians arrived to diagnose the issue. A quick check confirmed the old unit was low on refrigerant and showing signs of wear. Rather than applying a temporary fix, the homeowner opted for a full system replacement to ensure reliable comfort for years to come.

A Fresh Start: Installing a New Packaged Unit

To deliver consistent cooling, the HEP team installed a modern 2.5-ton, high-efficiency gas-pack unit from a trusted manufacturer. The new equipment was carefully positioned on the existing concrete pad, with fresh gravel added underneath for proper drainage and stability.

New Rheem Classic Unit on Gravel Bed
This freshly installed Rheem Classic unit sits on a stable gravel base, ensuring it stays level and drains properly.

After leveling the pad and making the gravel bed, the HEP technician connected the unit to the home’s existing ductwork. All seams and penetrations were sealed to prevent air leaks and maximize efficiency.

Neat Duct Connection and Sealant
A newly installed packaged unit tied into existing ductwork, with all connections sealed for peak performance.

Finishing Touches and Modern Upgrades

The installation wouldn’t be complete without attention to safety and convenience:

  • A new electrical disconnect box with a surge protector was mounted on the wall.
  • A fresh thermostat was set up inside to manage cooling with simple controls.
  • A UV light was added to the system to help improve indoor air quality by reducing airborne contaminants.
  • All leftover materials and debris were cleaned up, leaving the yard as tidy as when the crew arrived.

Professional Electrical Disconnect and Controls
A cleanly installed disconnect box and conduit ensure safe, code-compliant operation.

Final Touch: Level Pad and Secure Installation
Completed installation on a level pad with gravel support—no detail overlooked.

Homeowner Tips for Lasting Comfort

  1. Schedule Annual Maintenance
    Even the best equipment needs tune-ups. A yearly check helps keep refrigerant levels right, cleans coils, and catches minor issues early.

  2. Keep the Area Clear
    Trim back plants and debris around your outdoor unit so airflow remains unrestricted.

  3. Seal and Insulate
    Ask your technician to inspect duct connections and thermostat wiring. Proper sealing prevents wasted cooled air and reduces energy bills.

  4. Know When to Upgrade
    If your system is over ten years old or struggles to maintain temperature, a modern unit can pay for itself through energy savings and better comfort.

By choosing a full replacement, this Cleveland homeowner went from sweltering to comfortably cool all summer long. If your air conditioning feels underpowered, don’t wait for a total breakdown—reach out to HEP technicians for a reliable solution tailored to your home.

Published on August 15, 2025

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