NatureSweet Cherubs Greek Salad

My friends over at NatureSweet asked me if I would like to share a recipe with my readers, just in time for spring. Of course I jumped at the chance!

Course Type: Side Salad

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Short Summary: A classic Mediterranean favorite

Ingredients:

• 1 pkg Fresh Express® Spring Mix
• 2 Tbsp pitted black olives, sliced
• 1 cup NatureSweet® Cherubs® Tomatoes
• 1/2 cup red onion, sliced
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 4 whole pepperoncinis
• Your favorite balsamic or tarragon vinaigrette dressing

Instructions:

1. Place Fresh Express® Spring Mix into a large salad bowl.
2. Top with olives, NatureSweet® Cherubs® Tomatoes and onions. Add cheese and pepperoncinis. Drizzle dressing over salad.

Stay tuned, I will be developing a recipe that is perfect for spring and summer eating featuring my favorite little tomatoes!

7 Rainbow Crafts to Make with the Kids

Spring is here and that means we have been seeing our share of showers, and rainbows! Let's embrace the weather and savor the beautiful sights to be seen after the storm and make a few cute crafts while we are at it!

These ideas are so cute yet so simple! They are perfect for kids of a variety of ages and are worth bookmarking for those rainy spring days spent indoors with the kids!

I am going to try making the rainbow necklaces sometime this spring, and I think my kids would love to try the layered felt magnets. I can't wait to hear which of these rainbow crafts you want to make with the kids first!

Easy Streamer Rainbows
Layered Felt Rainbow Magnet
Paper Plate Rainbow Craft
Rainbow Mobile
Rainbow Necklaces
Rainbow Jars
DIY Rainbow Bracelet

Find more rainbow  crafts here

10 Too Cute Tulip Projects

Tulips are hands down my favorite spring flower. They are lovely and elegant while simple to care for and grow. I love to admire them as they come into bloom and I want to make all of the pretty flower crafts with the kids too! I found 10 too cute tulip projects that I couldn't wait to share with you. You might just want to make them all this spring!

I love the easy tulip earrings as a sweet gift for a friend and the paper tulips are perfect for making with my almost 8 year old.  We might make a handful of these for his teacher towards the end of the year!

Forever Tulips by Little Miss Celebration
Spring Tulip Wreath by Sugar Bee Crafts
How to Fold Paper Tulips by A Happy Home in Holland
DIY Tulip Earrings by 30 Minute Crafts
Tulip Wreath by Designer Trapped
Yellow Tulip Door Decor by Crafts ala Mode
3D Paper Tulips by Practically Functional
5 Minute Door Bouquet by Mad in Crafts
3D Tulips by Crafting Reality
Toilet Roll Tulips by Crafts by Amanda

I can't wait to hear which of these is your favorite tulip craft!
I have two super easy videos on facebook for tulip crafting with the kids! Check them out here:

Check out these easy 3d Paper Tulips

12 Pretty Peacock Projects

Spring is near and we can't wait to visit the Kingwood Center in Mansfield to view the lovely early flowers, stop by the green house and of course, check out their gorgeous peacocks!

To build on our excitement I thought it would be fun to make a few pretty peacock crafts! I found 12 lovely ideas that I can't wait to share with you. If you like peacocks you are going to want to make a few of these too.

DIY Etched Peacock Cuff Bracelet by Happy hour Projects
Peacock Wreath by Artsy Fartsy Mama
Peacock Soap by Suzy's Sitcom
Peacock Tutu Skirt by Life Sew Savory
Peacock Necklace by Mad in Crafts
Peacock Shoe Clips by Sugar Bee Crafts
Peacock Painted Curtains by Live Laugh Rowe
Peacock Feather Wreath by Doodle Crafts
DIY Peacock Stamped Dress by Twin Dragonfly Designs
Peacock Garden Art by Morena's Corner
DIY Peacock Earrings by Artsy Fartsy Mama
Pretty Peacock Journal by Suzy's Sitcom

I think the feather wreath is gorgeous! That would add so much color to my doorstep this spring! Which of these 12 pretty peacock projects is your favorite? Leave me a comment to let me know!

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 Spring Flower Crafts for Kids

Paper Plate Lions

Darling Daffodil Crafts

Welcome spring with these darling daffodil crafts! 

Spring is near and I can think of no better way to welcome it than by crafting up some darling daffodil projects! From upcycles to wreaths, this list has a ton of pretty posey projects to bring a touch of color to your decor!

K Cup Daffodils

Toilet Roll Daffodils

Dollar Store Daffodil Wreath

Egg Carton Daffodils

Felt Daffodils

Cupcake Liner Daffodils

Paper Daffodil Wreath

Daffodil Banner

Magnetic Daffodil Planter

Which of these darling daffodil projects is your favorite? I truly love all of them and can't wait to make them with the kids!

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3d TulipsSpring Flower Crafts

Easy Dipped Shortbread Fingers

Spring is here and that means it is time to pack dinner into a picnic basket as often as possible and head out for an al fresco meal with the kids! We usually take cookies along on these occasions for dessert, but last week, I wanted to take that to the next level of delicious.

This post is part of a sponsored collaboration with Walker's Shortbread.

Walker's Shortbread is the natural choice for my family, we love the buttery flavor of shortbread, but spring days require something super special; after all, we are celebrating the return of feathered friends, the sunshine, and shorts, and we are sending our bulky coats back to the closet from which they came!


Within a few moments time, I took our favorite shortbread to new heights with 3 simple ingredients and very little effort! To make our picnic a nutty sweet affair after the meal had ended I offered my family Walker's Shortbread dipped and drizzled with white and dark chocolate and coated in crunchy walnuts. This was maybe the best ending to a meal that I have ever whipped up in under 3 minutes!

To begin, I laid out parchment paper and spread my shortbread fingers on it.

Next, I melted a fine brand of  White Chocolate and a decadent brand of dark chocolate. I drizzled the melted goodness directly on to my shortbread.

Next, I sprinkled on chunks of raw walnuts and followed up with the dark chocolate.

Allow this to cool and harden for about 30 minutes. If you are in a rush, pop the cookies in the freezer for 10 minutes.

Serve or store in a sealed container for up to 4 days.

If you like cookies, don't miss this awesome collection of cookie recipes.

12 Bug Books for Preschoolers

Spring is the perfect time to dive into the insect world with your preschooler. I found 12 fun book books that your kids are going to love! After reading these titles, your kids are sure to want to get out and explore nature, looking for new buggy friends!

This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase I will earn a small advertisers fee at no extra expense to you.

Bugs Galore
With retro illustrations and plenty of rhymes, this book lets little learners explore lots of bugs and worms in a comical fashion.

Bugs
This book is a cheerful way to warm preschoolers up to the bugs they will see this summer. Featuring colorful illustrations and easy to read text, bugs won't seem so scary after exploring the pages of this story.

The Bug Book
This book is fun and factual for preschoolers. Explore all kinds of bugs in vivid photographs to learn more about the insects one might see this summer.

Some Bugs
With rhymes and vibrant illustrations, this book embraces the behaviors of backyard bugs and encourages exploration for preschoolers.

The Grouchy Ladybug
Take an adventure with a grouchy little ladybug to meet a variety of critters and explore manners in a fun way.

Ten Little Ladybugs
While this is a simple counting book, it is fun for preschoolers to explore and practice their counting skills with. Little hands love to feel the texture of the ladybugs as they count.

Builder Bugs
In this construction themed bug book, watch the bugs take actions like digging and hammering to make something special, which they will reveal in this pop up book!

The Very Hungry Caterpillar
In this book a very hungry caterpillar munches through a variety of goodies to transform into a beautiful butterfly. This book is much loved for its colorful illustrations and fun text.

Big Bug Book
This pop up book is packed with creepy, crawly fun! The book is nothing short of a celebration fit for the bugs return this spring!

Ten Magic Butterflies
With the help of ten magic butterflies preschoolers can learn to count and group things by groups of ten. This is a colorful introduction to math for early learners that comes very highly recommended.

The Very Busy Spider
Eric Carle books are a delight to explore with preschoolers. In this rhyming text a busy spider tries to spin her web while the animals on the farm come by to distract her from the task. This book is fun to read and touch!

The Ants Go Marching
This book takes preschoolers on an adventure in counting and singing with colorful ants! The repetition and counting up to 5 is perfect for an early approach to math that kids can't get enough of.

10 Tips for Weather-Proofing Your Home

 

Source

Weather-proofing your home is more than a precaution; it's a necessity, especially in places with diverse climates like Holland, Michigan. Known for its beautiful tulip gardens that bloom every spring, Holland experiences a wide range of weather throughout the year, from snowy winters to warm, sunny summers. This variety means that homes in Holland must be prepared to withstand whatever Mother Nature decides to throw their way. Here are some essential tips for weather-proofing your home to ensure it remains cozy, safe, and efficient, regardless of the season.

1. Start with the Roof

Your roof's integrity is paramount when it comes to weather-proofing your home. Beyond regular inspections and replacing worn shingles, consider the benefits of installing ice and water shields in areas prone to ice dams. These shields can prevent water from seeping under shingles and causing damage to the roof structure and interior of your home. Additionally, ensure your attic is properly ventilated. This will not only extend the life of your roof but also prevent ice dams by maintaining a more consistent roof temperature.

2. Seal Windows and Doors

Sealing leaks is just the first step; upgrading to double or triple-pane windows filled with inert gas can dramatically improve insulation, reducing the burden on your heating and cooling systems. A professional window company in Holland MI, such as All Weather Seal, can offer energy-efficient solutions and professional installation to ensure airtight seals. Similarly, for doors, upgrading to models with better insulation values and installing storm doors can provide an additional layer of protection against the elements.

3. Clean and Repair Gutters

While cleaning gutters is essential, so is ensuring they're properly aligned. Gutters that slope incorrectly do not efficiently channel water away from your home, potentially leading to foundation issues. Additionally, consider installing downspout extensions to direct water further away from your home's foundation. This simple addition can significantly reduce the risk of water damage to your basement and foundation, especially during Holland's heavy spring thaws and downpours.

4. Insulate Your Home

Insulation goes beyond just adding more material in the attic. Consider having a professional energy audit to identify heat loss areas, which could include hidden spots like electrical outlets, light fixtures, and where walls meet the ceiling. Expanding foam or blown-in insulation can fill these gaps, significantly improving your home’s thermal envelope. Additionally, insulating your garage door and ensuring any ductwork in unheated spaces is properly insulated can prevent cold spots and ensure more uniform temperatures throughout your home.

5. Protect Your Pipes

To further safeguard against frozen pipes, consider installing pipe insulation sleeves, which are easy to apply and cost-effective. For pipes located in particularly vulnerable areas, electrical heating tape can offer additional protection by providing direct warmth. On extremely cold nights, keeping your home a few degrees warmer than usual can make a significant difference in preventing freeze-ups. It's also wise to know where your home's main water shut-off valve is located so you can quickly respond in the event of a pipe bursting.

6. Strengthen Your Home's Exterior

The exterior of your home is its first line of defense against harsh weather. Regular inspections can catch minor issues before they escalate into major problems. If you find cracks or damage, addressing these immediately can prevent water from seeping into your home, which can lead to mold growth and structural issues. In areas where severe weather is a common occurrence, investing in high-quality siding materials can make a significant difference. Fiber-cement siding, for example, is renowned for its durability and resistance to wind, fire, and water, and it can withstand the rigors of extreme weather. Additionally, ensuring that your home’s trim and foundation are in good condition can prevent air leaks and water intrusion, keeping your home insulated and dry.

7. Landscape Wisely

Thoughtful landscaping is not only about aesthetics but also plays a crucial role in protecting your home from weather damage. Strategic planting of trees and shrubs can serve as natural windbreaks, reducing the impact of heavy winds on your home. They can also provide shade during the hotter months, contributing to keeping your home cooler. However, it's important to plant them at a safe distance from your home to avoid root damage to the foundation and to prevent any risk of branches falling on your house during storms. Choosing native plants that are adapted to your local climate can also reduce the need for water and maintenance, making your landscaping both beautiful and resilient.

8. Install Storm Shutters

Storm shutters are an invaluable addition to homes in areas prone to hurricanes or heavy storms. They offer protection for your windows against flying debris and can significantly reduce the risk of damage during severe weather events. Whether you opt for permanent shutters that blend with your home's exterior or temporary solutions that can be deployed when a storm is on the horizon, the added layer of protection can give you peace of mind knowing your home is better shielded against the elements.

9. Check Your Home's Ventilation

Adequate ventilation is key to maintaining a healthy indoor environment, particularly in controlling moisture levels. High humidity can lead to mold and mildew, which can compromise the structural integrity of your home and affect your health. Ensure that areas like your attic, basement, and crawl spaces have proper ventilation. Installing exhaust fans in your kitchen and bathrooms can also help in reducing moisture. This step is particularly important in maintaining your home’s warmth in winter and its coolness in summer, contributing to overall energy efficiency.

10. Create an Emergency Kit

Despite all the precautions, it’s always best to be prepared for any emergency. A well-stocked emergency kit is essential for weathering storms safely. Include basic supplies such as water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, a first-aid kit, and blankets. Also, consider adding items like a manual can opener, a radio, and spare chargers for electronics. Regularly reviewing and replenishing your emergency kit ensures you’re always prepared for unexpected weather events, providing both safety and comfort during difficult times.

Conclusion

Weather-proofing your home not only protects your property but also enhances your comfort and peace of mind throughout the year. By taking these steps, you can ensure that your home is ready to face whatever weather comes its way, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of each season without worry.

Play Doh Flower Counting Activity

Make counting and learning early math tons of fun for little ones with this hands on activity that combines early math with hands on tactile play. 

Play doh is the ultimate tool for play or learning at my house. We love to squish, mold and create with it, plus there are so many ways to learn with it. Adding it into our math lessons was a natural choice.

I was looking for a way to get Harper excited about early math, but it is hard to focus in the spring. There are so many colors, sights and smells to take in after months of indoor confinement.

As I took in the sights of spring, my inspiration was blooming all around me. 

This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase I will earn an advertisers fee at no additional cost to you.

Supplies:

Play Doh; green and any 2 other colors

Buttons

Number Stamps

Directions:

With green play doh, form 2 flower stems

With any other color of play doh form the flower body

Tear off 10 pinches of play doh and shape it to look like petals.

Select two numbers.

Stamp them on the flowers.

Offer your child buttons and the petals of play doh you formed.

Encourage your child to say the number stamped on the doh.

Now, add the coordinating number of buttons to one flower.

Add the coordinating number of petals to the other flower.

Repeat with other numbers.

Find more play doh ideas here Reader favorites include:
Sunscreen Play Dough

Homemade Lilac Perfume

Homemade Lilac Perfume is the perfect easy gift. It is made with the most unlikely ingredient that you may already have at home, vodka.

Lilacs are one of my favorite parts of spring. I love to pick them and fill small vases and bowls with them. The fragrance is almost intoxicating. I have been known to carry scissors on my walks in the spring so that if I run across a bush I can snip a bunch of delicate flowers. How I wish I could preserve that fragrance and enjoy it on winter days!

This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I earn a small fee from the seller.

The next best thing is this easy to make and super economical perfume. It uses vodka and lilac oil to make a simple and elegant fragrance that is perfect for daily wear. It doesn't smell like alcohol. The jojoba and lilac will blend with it.


I like to make two bottles at a time, one to keep and one to share with a sweet friend.

Homemade Lilac Perfume Supplies for 2 bottles.

20 drops of Lilac Fragrance Oil
1 tablespoon of jojoba oil
1 tablespoon of distilled water
2 tablespoons of vodka

2 smaller roller ball perfume bottles
A small funnel

Directions:

Mix all liquid ingredients in a small glass bowl.
With a micro funnel pour the perfume into the 2 small roller ball bottles.
Shake well and wear.

You can find all of my DIY posts here.

Capturing Moments with Portrait Innovations

This conversation has been sponsored, but the opinons and views expressed are my own. 

There is one thing my family has neglected since we became a family; portraits. While it was something we wanted to do, having time to do it was always an issue. Life moves pretty fast when you are in the thick of parenting. So fast, that one day I woke up to find those tiny babies were movers and shakers, climbing on the bus and heading off to school and becoming their own people.

That moment of realization, of recognition that these kids aren't going to be kids forever, that there is no time like the present to capture the magic of childhood made me take a step back and reconsider this making time for portraits situation.

We headed into Portrait Innovations and found that really, the process isn't as demanding as I had imagined it would be. It was actually quite fun and not like a task at all.

The kids might be growing, but they are ages 3 and 6. Mischief is the middle name at that age, but the people at Portrait Innovations were prepared for that, with Lego tables and kid friendly photographers, my kids were on their best behavior, having fun and saying cheese like a couple of professionals. The studio is very comfortable and inviting.

Overall, the process took about 90 minutes. We loved having choices in backgrounds, from holiday-themed to a rustic wood wall, there were so many options for a great family photo that the hardest part was selecting which ones we wanted.

The photographer was great. She was able to capture fantastic shots of my kids, as well as photos that were hilariously candid. She captured this moment which we all had a great laugh about!

We loved that the process was complete in under 2 hours and we went home with an assortment of lovely family photos that we will cherish for years to come. The photos captured our family as we are. We wanted to preserve a moment in time and that is exactly what we accomplished with our photo session at Portrait Innovations.

I loved how many options were available; from canvas prints to coffee mugs and photo greeting cards to assorted sizes, there is no better time to visit a local studio and capture a moment in time with your family.

Portrait Innovations is offering their best spring special ever. The Spring 24 Portrait Package is only $19.99 plus a Free $100 16x20 Canvas with coupon found by clicking this link

Included in the portrait package is 1-10x13 Wall Portrait, 2-8x10s, 4-5x7s, 4-3x5s, 8-2x3s, and 5-5x7 cards, plus a high-resolution CD with your favorite pose. And, you can save 20% on all additional purchases in the studio. Portrait Innovations never charges sitting fees so bring the whole family. Appointments are limited so schedule your appointment today!

If you feel lucky, why not try your luck at winning some cash after getting those portraits taken? Visit the landing page and then share your entry on social media and include the link to your friends and family to vote. The top 20 people that get the most votes will be judged by Portrait Innovations. There will be 5 winners, each receiving $1,000!

Funtastic Easter Basket Fillers

Easter is this weekend you guys! I always seem to wait until the last minute to tackle the baskets because my husband and I want to eat all of the candy otherwise. HA! This year we decided to focus less on the sweets and more on the treats to make Easter a fun yet simple affair that would be kind to our waistlines.

I have a list of ideas to share with you  that will make fun-tastic fillers for your Easter baskets this year. Samples and considerations of some products were received to inspire my list. We love these options because they provide hands on fun and invitations to explore and create.

1) Galaxy Slimy Gloop
This stuff is so much fun to make and play with! I am always a fan of gifts that encourage both learning and fun. This kit is available at Walmart and Michaels for under $7. It makes a fun option for older kids and teens.

2) Galactic Bath Bombs by Youniverse
Bath bombs are fun to make and create, so this kit is perfect for tweens and teens this Easter. It contains everything you will need to make several great bath bombs. The kit retails for under $13 so it is affordable and packs a lot of fizzy fun into the basket.

 3) STMT Signature Scent
This kit is perfect for girls that want to experiment with fragrance. It contains everything you need to make 4 rollerball bottles of perfume. Retailing at under $18 this is a great gift option for Easter. I made a batch of perfume from this kit with my daughter and it smells really nice, and we LOVED making it together!

4) Rock Art Kits
These are my favorite filler for an Easter basket this year because my kids love finding rocks, decorating them and hiding them! This can be so much more than just a art project kind of filler, it can be a totally fun family experience! Retailing at $5 each, these kits are perfect for kids 6 and older.

5) Aqualiens
Maybe it is wishful thinking on my part, but these had to go in the Easter baskets as they will bring my kids so much joy when the pool is ready to go this summer. This dive toy is not just a toss and go kind of toy. It is a transforming diving toy that is really quite impressive! Retailing at under $10, these pods that morph into a creature are awesome for Easter!

6) Squidivers
These are perfect diving toys for my little one who is just mastering swimming. These wiggle and jiggle to the bottom and are easy to see and grab for little hands. Retailing at under $8, Squidivers are a fun filler for any Easter basket that will bring a lot of happiness to the kids as the weather gets warmer.


7) Barbie Water Bottle
The Barbie bottle by Horizon group is a great way to encourage health and creativity this Easter. The bottle comes in a fun barbie style with the pens to color the bottle how you like it! Retailing at under $13 you can find this bottle on Amazon.

8) Welch's Fruit Snacks
I love to add these to Easter baskets not only for the fun design but also because they are a tasty snack that is mostly guilt free. Look for the fun 28 packs with Easter designs at your local grocery store.

9) Board Games
Payday by Hasbro is one of our favorite options right now because my 7 year old needs money management lessons terribly! This is a fun way to learn about money and budgeting in a way that kids can understand.

Jenga Pass also makes a fun way to add family fun into an Easter basket! I love that the classic game of Jenga takes a twist and turn in this new fun version! Retailing at under $20 I love this pick for tweens and teens.

10) Play Doh
As a kid, I got pretty excited for play doh. I love to see that same magic in the eyes of my kids when they open a can of play doh! The Play Doh Kitchen Creations Magic Oven Set is a super fun outlet for creation and hands on fun.
I love that this oven has lights to make the experience super realistic for my 4 year old.

The fun continues with the Play Doh Letters and Language Set and the Play Doh Textures and Tools Sets. These are so much fun for little hands! Each set contains the tools you need for fun like mats, stamps and play doh! At under $20 these are perfect for an Easter basket.

11) Nerf Guns
My son loves to invite his friends over to play. Lately they have been clamouring for Nerf Guns. The Nerf Microshot Series is perfect for Easter baskets. Priced at under $7, these guns pack a whole lot of punch in a small package.

12) Star Wars Force Link Starter Sets
With this new wearable tech you can FEEL the force during playtime! Compatable with more than 30 Star Wars toys, the force link starter set unlocks sound effects, phrases and lights. We love that our starter set came with Kylo Ren for a new twist on play! Retailing at under $35 this option will bring the fun of Easter out in full force!

13) Luke and Leia Muggs Figures
These are so cute that they practically beg to be in an Easter Basket! Retailing at under $10, they are a fun way to bring the force to Easter! We love that the faces change easily to give a new twist on playtime!

14) Disney Princess Little Kingdom Magical Movers
My little Disney princess can't get enough of her favorite girls, so these tiny little play sets are perfect for dramatic play sessions that she can really get into! Adding a favorite like Ariel, Snow White or Rapunzel to her Easter basket makes for a sweet holiday for sure. We loved that these are affordable and adorable for the win!

15) Adora 
With spring comes the need to coo about babies. This year why not bring a new little bundle of joy home for your little girl with a realistic looking doll from Adora. These are so cute and cuddly! Retailing at $15 and up, these are the perfect cure for baby fever this spring! You can find clothes, accessories and more to make the Adora doll the perfect filler for an Easter basket.

16) Strawbees
My kids love to build and create, so we knew Strawbees would be a really fun way to encourage hands on creativity. This set contains the parts and straws you need to create some really cool contraptions, creatures and fun things to play with.  Retailing at under $30, this 400 piece set is perfect for filling an Easter basket with fun!

17) Stomp Rockets
This is a fun toy to encourage active play. Kids won't be able to resist stomping their rockets into space! This is fun for kids of a variety of ages and encourages kids to learn about how the rockets launch while actively playing for the hippity hoppity win this Easter.




What are some of your favorite ways to fill a basket that are not candy? Leave me a comment to inspire me at the last minute please!

Five Common Air Conditioner Problems - and What to Do If You Encounter Them

If you are reading this article, you are probably having issues with your air conditioning system and hoping to figure out what is causing the problem and how to resolve it. Specific issues most commonly arise, and we have decided to address those situations because no one likes sitting in a house when your AC isn’t functioning correctly.

Air conditioning is necessary nationwide, especially in California - where the warmth is experienced year-round, and the summer months are sweltering. You can only place so many fans in a room, but that still doesn’t provide a viable solution. Home HVAC systems offer families warmth, comfort, and complete security everywhere. When you cannot access cool air - things can get a bit sticky, both literally and figuratively - and dependable AC repair and HVAC solutions may be in your best interest.

An AC Unit That Won’t Turn Off

Once Springtime rolls around in California, everyone’s AC kicks on and seems to stay on through the end of August and, often, even throughout the early Fall months. If your air conditioner is on, your thermostat may be set to ‘Auto,’ meaning your HVAC systems will do the work for you and maintain the temperature you want your environment to be. 

Your AC should automatically kick on, but if it never turns off, even when you intentionally set it to stop - you may be facing an issue with a multitude of things, thermostat, air filters, electrical or compressor problems. You can always attempt turning on the fan through your thermostat, but if the air conditioner is still on - it may be time for professional HVAC repairs.

AC Unit That Won’t Turn On

An air conditioner that won’t turn on is one of the most annoying problems you can have as a homeowner. It is one of the most frustrating events to wake up sweating through your sheets because your AC has been off all night - then when you got to flip it on, and nothing happens - you have no means of cooling down.

You always want to check your circuit breaker because it could be as easy as the system is tripped, but if that does not help, you may have an issue with your wiring or a faulty thermostat. You do not want to attempt to fix these issues, as electrical wiring and thermostat problems can pose a danger. If you aren’t sure what to do, don’t attempt a diagnosis - reach out to trusted technicians to get the job done safely.

AC is On, but There is No Cold Air

If your air conditioner is on, but you are not getting cold air, or hot air is blowing out instead - you may be getting warmer by the minute. This problem calls for a quick fix because no one in California wants to deal with hot air blowing around in the middle of Spring or Summer. However, it may be as simple as your air filter!

When you have a messy air filter packed with dirt, dust, and debris, it can cause severe obstructions causing other areas of the system to overheat. It could also be your refrigerant levels; you must always ensure they aren’t too high or too low, which can also cause issues. So, replace your air filters and check your levels before jumping to too many conclusions!

Water or Refrigerant Leaking

Leaking water or refrigerant is something you will only notice sometimes. You want to take care of this immediately if you see it because you are dealing with coolant, and if you have small children at home, it can be hazardous should they come into contact with the liquids.

If there is a lot of condensation build-up or liquids leaking around your unit, you will first want to turn the unit off. Running your unit while there are leaks could further damage your HVAC systems. You can avoid this by completing maintenance checks regularly and hiring licensed HVAC technicians to conduct inspections. 

Strange Smells or Noises Coming from the System

Sometimes our AC units are simply older and make a lot of noise while they are in use, but if you notice any strange noises that are out of the ordinary or odd smells - that is a clear sign that something could be wrong. Electrical and wiring problems could be the culprit of a burning smell, and pesky leaks could be the cause of mildew scents.

Anything out of the ordinary should be directed to a professional. You can always do a quick peek around the unit but again, be sure to power it down and reach out to a local HVAC company in California to put your home back on track.

It May Be Time to Reach Out to HVAC Technicians for Help…

Air conditioning is a privilege, but it is also a necessity in California. Keeping cool in the Summertime is something that everyone has a fundamental right to because the comfort and security of your entire household depend on it. Universal Heating and Air is a locally owned company servicing families all over California with elite HVAC repairs, installation, and maintenance services.

Universal HVAC has been serving residents and commercial businesses in California for decades, and their experience is something all of their clients can genuinely depend on. When your air conditioner is out of whack or entirely out of order, you must prioritize resolving it. Still, it is not your responsibility to be an expert - leave that up to your trusted HVAC technicians to keep your house cool this summer!