How much do you know about indoor air quality products?
If you’re in the market for a new air conditioner, you’ve probably run across the acronym “IAQ.” IAQ stands for “Indoor Air Quality.” These are the components of your heating and air conditioning system that seek to improve just that – the quality of your indoor air.
The most obvious, and arguably most important part of your indoor air quality system is your furnace filter. It is your main defense against indoor air particles that can lower indoor air quality. But, there are other, less obvious, indoor air quality additions you can add to your home. Let’s take a look at them one-by-one.
Whole-Home Humidifier or Dehumidifiers
Do you know how humidity can affect home comfort? A home that has higher humidity is going to feel warmer than one at a lower humidity level. During the summer, it can be a good idea to lower the humidity level of your home to make it feel cooler and potentially lower the strain on your air conditioner.
UV Light Systems
These products can add extra protection against indoor air pollutants. But, UV light systems do more than just block pollutants – they use the UV light spectrum to eliminate bacteria and viruses from your indoor air. This keeps you and your family healthier. And, they can eliminate unpleasant odors.
Air Cleaners
Polluted indoor air has been cited for the EPA as one of the main threats to human health. Air cleaners, like a media air cleaner, block pollutants and allergens present in the air before they enter your duct system.
Temperature Control Systems
We can’t talk about indoor air quality without mentioning thermostats. Thermostats are the “central command” of your heating and cooling system. This is the component that alerts your air conditioner or gas furnace when you need heating or cooling power.
Are you having a new air conditioner installed before the start of the cooling season? Make sure you talk to your local contractor about indoor air quality system options.
Like this post? Share it!
Do you have a disposable or permanent filter in your home?
Your HVAC air filter is an important aspect of your HVAC system. Here’s a scary fact…your indoor air is often more polluted than outdoor air! Indoors, you have to contend with chemicals from cleaners, pet dander, dust, allergens and more! You want to make sure that the filter you have in your home is going to filter out those particles without restricting airflow.
There are two basic filter categories in the heating and cooling industry – disposable and permanent.
Disposable filters are filters that are placed somewhere within your air distribution system that help filter out harmful particles from the air that is distributed around your home. They come in a variety of filtration levels – the more filtration power a filter has, the smaller the particles that filter can remove from the air. Disposable filters must be changed regularly to avoid restricting airflow. At the very least, you must change your disposable filter once a season. Even better? Once a month.
Permanent/washable filters are the other type of filter. These aren’t the type of filter that you use, replace and throw away. With a permanent filter, you must wash your filter regularly. If you do not wash it, the filter will restrict airflow and make your unit work harder to heat or cool your home. When you do clean your permanent filter, it is important to take it outside – you don’t want to reintroduce those particles into your indoor air.
Regularly changing or cleaning your furnace filter is important for the performance and lifespan of your heating and air conditioning equipment. Without frequent filter changes or cleanings, the particles trapped in your filter can block airflow and force your equipment to work harder to heat or cool your home. This can put a strain on your equipment and result in decreased efficiency and shorter-than-expected lifespans.
Most contractors recommend using disposable filters in heating and air conditioning systems. However, always consult with your contractor before you make a decision.
Do you know which type you have in your home?
Like this post? Share it!
Do you know what affects airflow?
As we head into the hotter months, it’s important to keep things in mind that can help you get the most out of your air conditioner in the most efficient way possible. There’s nothing worse than getting a massive utility bill during the summer.
A major component of efficiency and performance is airflow. And, there are a lot of different things that can affect airflow. Here are some things to keep in mind.
Don’t close registers and vents.
Your HVAC system is designed to provide warm or cool air to a designated amount of space. That’s why it is so important for your contractor to properly size your equipment. Closing registers and vents affects the amount of space your unit is conditioning. The same principle applies to doors. Keep doors open, even when there isn’t someone in the room. If you want customized airflow, talk to your contractor about a zoning system.
Aim grass clippings away from your air conditioner or heat pump.
It’s grass cutting season! While you’re taking the time to make your lawn look trimmed and healthy, make sure you keep your HVAC system in mind. Grass clippings can get stuck on the exterior of your system and block airflow.
Plant far enough from your air conditioner or heat pump.
You want to make sure that your outdoor equipment has adequate room to pull air from the outdoors. It is a good idea to plant at least two feet away from your condenser.
Have a contractor check your ductwork once a year.
Your ductwork can become scary without proper attention. You never know what may be hiding in your ducts. A good duct cleaning is not just a good idea to improve airflow, it is also a good way to find out if there are any unseen problems with your home – like rodents, mold or other pests.
Regularly change your furnace filter.
Disposable filters need to be replaced at the very least once per season. It is actually a better idea to change them more frequently than that. For example, households with pets may want to consider changing the furnace filter once a month.
Clean your permanent filter frequently.
Whether temporary or permanent, your system needs a clean filter for proper airflow. Make sure you follow proper cleaning procedures for your permanent filter. Make sure you take it outside to clean it off. You don’t want to reintroduce the particles that the filter took out of your indoor air back into it!
Ductwork design is important.
There is a lot of work that goes into installing new HVAC equipment – especially if a new duct system must be installed as well. Make sure your contractor takes the time to properly design your duct system. This can be the difference between having a comfortable home and having a home that experiences uneven temperatures.
Have a contractor come out and clean your condenser.
It’s never too late to have your contractor come out and clean your air conditioner before the peak cooling season. A lot of gunk can accumulate on your air conditioner – restricting airflow and forcing your air conditioner to work harder to draw air in.
Any maintenance, repair or installation starts with the search for a qualified local contractor. Do some research and find the professional in your area that is going to get the job done right the first time.
Do you do these things to assure proper airflow? What is something you are going to start doing?
Like this post? Share it!
Do you have to replace your air conditioner before summer starts?
Maybe something came up during preventative maintenance… Maybe your bills have skyrocketed… Maybe you turned on the system only to find it blowing HOT air… Whatever the reason, replacing an air conditioner is an important investment.
The air conditioner you choose today is going to be with you for the next 10-15 years (on average). Because HVAC equipment is such an infrequent purchase, homeowners may feel lost when they embark on the purchasing journey.
Here are some things to help you through the buying process.
Everything rests on the shoulders of the contractor you choose… so choose well. Often, the efficiency and performance of your air conditioner is determined by the quality of the install. The average “Joe” is not going to be able to effectively install your air conditioner. Make sure the contractor you choose comes out to your home BEFORE giving you a quote – no pricing on the back of a business card or over the phone. Make sure they ask a lot of questions. After all, how are they going to know what you want if they don’t ask? Lastly, make sure they are up-to-date on training, licenses and permits. You want the job done right the first time. If you think hiring a qualified contractor is expensive, just see how much is costs to hire one who cuts corners.
Explore your efficiency options. A good rule-of-thumb is to invest in the most efficiency you can afford. Luckily, air conditioners come in a range of efficiencies that can fit any budget or need. A more efficient unit is going to be more expensive up front, but it may pay for itself over the course of its life.
Find out if you have an air conditioner or heat pump. Heat pumps can provide electric heating capabilities in addition to electric cooling. This can make it a great option for those nights when an air conditioner would have to tap into backup heat to keep a home comfortable. Ask your contractor what is popular in your area.
Make sure you ask your contractor whether they register your warranty, or whether it is up to you to register your warranty. Most HVAC manufacturers require product registration for their long parts warranties. It is a simple step, but one that is frequently overlooked.
Are you ready to buy your new air conditioner? Find a qualified local contractor and the rest should be a breeze.
Like this post? Share it!
Is your air conditioner ready to tackle the summer heat?
May is here and temperatures are warming up! Summer will be here before you know it. Have you taken the time to schedule your preventative maintenance appointment yet?
Preventative maintenance is the best way to make sure your air conditioner is prepared for the summer heat. Spring is considered an off-season for contractors – they are not nearly as busy as they are during the summer. This makes it the perfect time to have your cooling equipment inspected. If you were to need a repair during the summer, you could be stuck for days or WEEKS without your air conditioner. Don’t put yourself in that situation.
Here are some things you should keep in mind while preparing for your preventative maintenance appointment.
Take some time to find the right contractor. Like installations, finding a quality contractor is important for maintenance. A contractor who takes pride in their work will do things right, and do them right the first time. They will be able to catch any minor issues before they turn into big problems.
Clear the way. Do you have anything blocking your heating and cooling equipment? Make sure you move it out of the way. This will save the contractor time and save you money.
Put pets up. It’s important to make sure your pets are in a safe place. Even if Fido is friendly, you never know how a contractor may feel about pets. Plus, you don’t want them interfering with your contractor’s work.
Be prepared. Know where to direct your contractor when they arrive at your home. Is your furnace or air handler in the attic, basement, or in a closet? Knowing where your equipment is located can help save time.
Remember, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure! Make sure you schedule your spring clean and check soon!
Like this post? Share it!
Are you ready to reduce your utility bill spending?
What do you do to spend less on utilities during the cooling season? During the summer, your air conditioner has to work hard to keep your home as cool as possible. And this year, if the temperatures stay the course, your air conditioner will have to work extra hard to keep your home comfortable. We have become accustomed to temperature controlled homes, but that doesn’t mean we are happy with the number on the electric bill at the end of the month.
The best way to reduce spending and improve efficiency is upgrading your old equipment. But, if that is just not in the cards, there are other things that you can do to your old equipment that can help you shave some dollars off that electric bill.
Try turning up the thermostat a few degrees. Small adjustments on your thermostat will have a negligible impact on comfort, but can make a difference on your cooling bill. The optimal thermostat setting during the summer is 78F, according to the Department of Energy.
Keep your filter fresh. Nothing kills efficiency quite like a dirty air filter. Make sure you are changing your filter AT LEAST once a season. For some homes, (like the homes of allergy sufferers and pet owners), it may be necessary to change your furnace filter once a month.
Invest in a programmable thermostat. You may not be able to invest in an entirely new HVAC system, but you can have a contractor come out and upgrade your thermostat. Programmable thermostats are just that – programmable. They give you the ability to set temperatures based on your schedule so you aren’t wasting cooling dollars on an empty home.
Variable-speed air distribution equipment. Next time you do go to replace either your air handler or furnace, consider your variable-speed options. Variable-speed equipment improves home comfort (through consistent, variable-speed air distribution) more efficiently than having your thermostat set to the “on” fan setting.
Keeping your windows and doors closed, and investing in weather stripping. Air leaks can negatively impact home comfort and increase the amount you spend cooling your home. Your air conditioner must work harder to keep your home cool if that cool air is constantly escaping outdoors. If you have to open the window, make sure you do it briefly.
Shading the south side of your home. The sun shining into your south-facing rooms can heat things up and make it harder for your air conditioner to keep up. Consider planting a tree that blocks sunlight, or invest in blinds and curtains that you can use for hot, sunny days.
Scheduling a clean and check during the spring. This is the single most important efficiency lifesaver. During a clean and check, your contractor will make sure that everything in your cooling system functioning properly in addition to cleaning the unit to ensure premium performance and maximum airflow.
Have you scheduled your spring clean and check yet? Don’t worry! There’s still time. Just make sure you take some time to find the right contractor for the job. Make sure they have all the proper licenses and permits, and they come out to your home before they give you a quote.
Have you tried some of these tricks before? Have you noticed a reduction in your cooling expenses?
Like this post? Share it!
Are your utility bills climbing higher and higher?
Did you know that heating and cooling equipment makes up more than HALF of your utility bill expenses? When it comes to HVAC, investing in high-efficiency means nothing if you aren’t taking steps to ensure your system is working at peak performance levels.
Here are some things that can kill the efficiency of your HVAC system.
Planting too close to your outdoor equipment. Airflow. Airflow. Airflow. You want to make sure that your outdoor equipment experiences proper airflow. Plants placed too close to your outdoor unit interfere with airflow, and their roots can cause damage.
Not changing your furnace filter frequently enough. Most efficiency killers involve blocked airflow. Not only is a dirty furnace bad for your health, but it can be bad for efficiency as well. Make sure you are changing your furnace filter once a season, or (even better) once a month!
Constantly adjusting your non-programmable thermostat. Customized temperature is something that can help improve home comfort. However, if you have a non-programmable thermostat, constant thermostat adjustments may result in more on/off cycles. Your cooling equipment consumes the most energy when its ramping on. If you want customized home comfort, invest in a programmable thermostat that does the adjusting for you.
Opening and closing registers. Your air conditioner is designed to cool a certain amount of air. When you open and close registers, this affects the amount of space your air conditioner is cooling. A better plan is to invest in a zoning system. A zoning system groups your home by rooms (or groups of rooms) each controlled by their OWN thermostat. This way different areas of your home can receive just the right amount of air.
Collapsed or blocked ductwork. Collapsed or blocked ductwork results in many of the same problems of a blocked filter, or an open or closed register. If a portion of your ductwork has collapsed, cool air distribution is prohibited. This can result in longer run times and a higher utility bill (not to mention decreased comfort). Make sure you get your ductwork inspected once a year. Not only will this help check for collapsed or blocked portions, but your contractor can also alert you to unseen problems your home may be having – like rodents or insects.
Opening windows and doors. Opening a window or door during the spring may seem like a good idea. Temperatures are warmer, but still cool enough to be comfortable. However, opening windows and doors is essentially letting your money fly out the window. Remember, it’s not your job to cool the entire neighborhood.
Not scheduling routine maintenance. The best way to keep your air conditioner running at peak efficiency levels is to schedule a clean and check with your contractor every spring. During a maintenance appointment, your contractor inspects the electrical system, cleans the unit and makes sure everything is running properly. Some contractors even have the option of maintenance contracts. That way you never forget to schedule an appointment.
Unfortunately, the age of a system also effects its efficiency. Even the most efficient units must work harder to cool as they get older. If your air conditioner is around 16 years old, it may be time to consider replacing it with a higher efficiency model. Even standard-efficiency units today are significantly more efficient than models manufactured ten years ago. Talk to your local HVAC contractor during your spring preventative maintenance appointment about your high-efficiency cooling options.
Are there things that you do to help improve efficiency?
Like this post? Share it!
How much do you know about coils?
The weather is already heating up. Spring has already bought about some uncharacteristically warm temperatures to many areas of the United States. It’s looking like it’s going to be one hot summer! Do you know if your air conditioner is ready to tackle the heat? Each component of your air conditioner must be operating properly for you to enjoy maximum efficiency and comfort. Knowing what each component does can help you understand your contractor better during a service appointment.
It’s time for another component highlight – coils. An air conditioner contains two coils – an outdoor condenser coil and an indoor evaporator coil. If either of these coils were to malfunction, your air conditioner will not be able to supply cool air for your home.
So, what are the different types of coils? Well, condenser coils are located in the outdoor portion of your air conditioner. When refrigerant is inside the condenser coil, it does just what you would think it would do – it condenses the refrigerant into a liquid. It does this by transferring heat from the refrigerant to the outdoor air. Have you ever stood next to your outdoor unit? This process is the reason the air coming out of your air conditioner is warm!
The next coil is the evaporator coil. In this indoor coil, the refrigerant evaporates from a liquid into a gas. It does this by removing heat from air that is blown across the evaporator coil. This is the part of the cooling process that results in cool air. The air that is blown across the coil is cooled and then distributed throughout your home through your ductwork.
Knowing what the different components in your air conditioner do can make it clear why scheduling preventative maintenance in the spring is so important to the health of your air conditioner. If one component isn’t working well, it affects the operation of all other components. Make sure to call a qualified local contractor today, before the start of the peak cooling season. You won’t regret it when temperature start to soar during the summer.
Are there any other components you want to learn more about?
Like this post? Share it!
Have you ever heard of a compressor?
We’re coming up on the peak cooling season! Is your air conditioner ready to handle the heat? Air conditioners are complex pieces of equipment that help make our homes comfortable during the summer. And, any HVAC system that provides cooling to your home includes a compressor.
If we’re comparing your air conditioner to the human body, the compressor would be like the heart. This component helps circulate refrigerant throughout your air conditioning system. It compresses so that it reaches the right pressure and temperature for optimal heat transfer.
However, the compressor also uses the most energy out of all the components of your central cooling system. Different kinds of compressors can operate at different efficiency levels. There are two main compressor designs – scroll and rotary.
Scroll compressors contain two spiral shaped compressors – one of which stays stationary while the other rotates around it. This motion provides the necessary compression function.
Rotary compressors contain a roller that rotates off center to provide necessary compression. Ultra-high efficiency equipment has an additional component that works alongside the rotary compressor – the inverter. Units that contain an inverter can modulate between capacities. This way you are using just the right amount of energy to cool your home at any given time – saving money and increasing comfort.
Your best resource when it comes to heating and air conditioning knowledge is your local HVAC contractor. In fact, now is the time to give them a call and schedule preventative maintenance.
What other components of your HVAC system would you like to learn about?
Like this post? Share it!
Do you have any questions about your heating and cooling system?
Let’s face it, heating and cooling is not something that people think about daily. In fact, since HVAC equipment has a long lifespan, you may only have to think about it every 10 to 15 years! It’s no surprise that you may have a few questions when it does come time to replace your old heating and cooling equipment. Everything from system type to efficiency ratings will affect your bills and comfort.
Here are some frequently asked questions.
What is refrigerant?
If you’ve had your air conditioner or heat pump serviced before, you may have heard about refrigerant. Essentially, refrigerant is a liquid/gas component of your equipment that facilitates heat transfer.
Should I buy an air conditioner or heat pump?
The answer to this question depends on where you live, and what you use to heat your home. If you only have electricity at your disposal, a heat pump is a great solution. It can cool and heat your home using electricity. Heat pumps are also a great idea for climates that don’t see extreme winters – like the South. However, a heat pump can be used in any climate. Like an air conditioner, it can be paired with a gas furnace for powerful heating during the winter.
What is HVAC?
“HVAC” stands for “heating, ventilation and air conditioning.” It’s a generic term used to describe the technology and products that heat or cool your home. It some places, you may see it as “HVACR.” The “R” stands for refrigeration.
How much does an air conditioner cost?
There are so many different variables that go into the cost of an air conditioner. These variables include efficiency, size, labor costs, refrigerant costs and more! The best way to get an estimate of how much your new HVAC system is going to cost is by talking to a local contractor. However, don’t just get a quote over the phone or on the back of a business card. Make sure the contractor you get your quote from comes out to your home, inspects your current system and asks you questions about what you expect from your new cooling unit.
What is SEER?
SEER stands for “Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ration” and is a measure of cooling efficiency. The higher the SEER, the more efficient the cooling system. As a rule of thumb, you want to invest in the most efficiency you can afford. Although costs may be higher upfront, you may enjoy lower utility bills over the course of the systems’ life that will more than make up for the initial investment.
Am I in charge of registering my warranty?
After you buy any new HVAC system, it is important that the equipment is registered for full warranty protection. The person in charge of registering the equipment will vary. Make sure you ask your contractor whether you register your equipment, or whether they will take care of it.
Should I schedule spring HVAC maintenance?
Spring HVAC maintenance is one of the most important things you can do for your air conditioner – whether it is a year old or 10 years old. This is the best way to make sure that your equipment is up for the peak cooling season.
Don’t see the answer to one of your questions? Either ask us in the comments, or talk to a local contractor. Take some time to hire a contractor today to either install your new cooling system or maintain your current one.