by admin | May 31, 2016 | A/C Unit
AC Brand
It is quite difficult for someone to feel comfortable during the summer months without having air conditioning in the home. It is also difficult when your air conditioning unit breaks down and you don’t know a good HVAC contractor to call for repair services. It is even more difficult when you have upgrade plans for the home and are getting ready to purchase a central AC unit, not having a clue on which brand to purchase.
The Pros and Cons
Each air conditioning brand comes with different pros and cons. Even for a specialist or expert in the industry, it is a tossup at times to suggest the ideal brand for a customer without first inspecting the home and discussing the client’s needs. There are several critical aspects to consider when choosing the right AC brand whether you are upgrading or making your first purchase.
Longevity
When you are trying to select the ideal air conditioning brand, lifespan and longevity should be your first concern. You want to buy an AC unit that can stand the test of time and still operate efficiently over a number of years. The earlier AC systems will tend to last longer, usually about twenty years. However, the advancement and development of more sophisticated systems and mass production may not hold true to the same longevity of the past. For example, you may find the thermostat on one AC brand works better than on another. Contact a HVAC contractor with the knowledge and experience to advise you on which of the AC brands will last longer and work more efficiently. It is good to also note that most air conditioners that are the most recent models will come with five year warranty on servicing of parts, labor and compressors.
Energy Efficiency
Even if durability is not one of the advantages of newer models of air conditioner units, energy efficiency tends to be an area of strength. This could be due to the interest that consumers now have in energy saving devices. Manufacturers have answered the call in making appliances with the energy star score in mind. Most of the leading AC brands have up to a seven star rating. This significantly reduces the amount of energy air conditioning units required for use. So, when you are looking to choose the best brand, pay attention to the energy star score. This will help you to save on your utility.
The Features
Look for the features on the brand that you are interested in. Some of these features will give you a better cooling performance. This could include:
- Inverter
- Compressor size
- Timer control to preset the on and off times
- Thermostat
- Zoning – dividing the home into different zones
- Advanced and sophisticated climate control to regulate the temperature in each room
- WiFi and remote access to turn on the air conditioner several minutes before getting home
Conclusion
When selecting your AC brand, you should also consider the reputation of the company and if there will be any additional support offered after your purchase. Most of the well-known brands are Toshiba, Samsung, Mitsubishi and Carrier. However, consult with your HVAC contractor before you make the purchase.
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by admin | May 24, 2016 | HVAC
HVAC Contractor
The efficiency of your HVAC unit can be increasingly improved if you adapt to the idea of regular maintenance. In addition, in so doing, you will end up saving on energy costs and avoiding costly replacements and repairs. Many homeowners don’t realize the dramatic results that can be gained from regular maintenance.
General Services
There are some general services that the HVAC contractor can perform in your home to make sure that your heating, ventilation and air conditioning system remains efficient. For that reason, you will feel warm inside your home when it is cold outside and cool when the weather is warm outside during the hot summer months. If regular maintenance is not performed, then your HVAC system will be overworked and eventually run into instances where repairs and parts replacements are unavoidable.
Poor Maintenance
When your HVAC system is poorly maintained or not maintained, it will use more energy to regulate the necessary temperature. If you already have an inefficient AC and heating system, it could be that you have not had them regularly maintained. It is then time to call on a HVAC technician for an inspection and assessment. Let’s take a closer look at the type of general services that you should consider with regular maintenance of your HVAC system.
The Inspection
An HVAC contractor will start by giving you a free estimate for an inspection. The technician will evaluate the system and the space where the system provides ventilation. If you have a centralized air conditioning and heating system, the contractor will have to do a more intense inspection, which will take more time. Find out if your HVAC contractor offers free inspection estimates or a special package.
Repair and Cleaning
If you have an HVAC system that is fairly new and in good condition, your technician may only need to clean and repair your system. Some HVAC companies will utilize advanced and sophisticated technology with specialized tools. So ask about the pricing first before moving forward.
Installation and Replacement
If you have had your HVAC system for a while, you may need a replacement or possible repair. If you have to replace your system, then the HVAC contractor can usually do the installation of any brand. Your contractor may be able to suggest a specific brand selection for more efficiency and energy saving. It is best to have a professional do the installation because of the technicalities involved in the process.
Continual Support
After the installation of your HVAC system, you should consider employing the services of the contractor for continued support and maintenance. You will be able to get answers to pertinent questions and have your cleaning and repair done.
Conclusion
Be sure to use the services of a reputable HVAC contractor, one with years of experience and the right licensing and insurance. Regular maintenance will ultimately extend the life of your HVAC system.
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by admin | May 17, 2016 | HVAC
HVAC System Installation
Your HVAC unit has many complicated elements that only an HVAC specialist can understand and determine. Many mistakes with HVAC installation are mostly made by the unprofessional. However, there are mistakes that can be made by some professionals. There are some common errors that can be avoided if attention is keen during the installation process. Let’s explore.
Furnace Size
It is important to choose the right furnace size. Bigger does not necessarily mean better when trying to select a furnace for installation. Many HVAC contractors will often recommend that you select a furnace that matches the size of the one you had before. In doing so, you will get an accurate amount of airflow. For the correct installation of your HVAC unit, there are calculations required to make the right choice furnace. A professional HVAC contractor can do the calculations for you, especially in the case that you are moving into a newly constructed home.
Combustion Appliance Safety
Modern appliances tend to have a distinctive backdraft that can sometimes be confusing to some contractors. It is important, then, for the contactor to put safety first and check for combustion related to your appliance unit before doing an installation. Some of the essential steps may include:
- Assessing whether there are any cracks found in the pipe
- Test for flue gases
- Depressurization
Leaks from carbon monoxide can result in dangerous poisoning and harm to your household.
Duct Lines
The wrong size duct can cause leakage in your HVAC unit, if not properly chosen. It can also result in improper flow of air or low flow of air, which will subsequently cause the overheating of your furnace.
The Ventilation
In any HVAC unit, ventilation is also an important commodity, but there are some HVAC contractors that concentrate only on keeping the home either cold or hot. It is important also to have the right ventilation in order to maintain balance and a clean air flow.
Home Size
Additionally, when you are choosing the appropriate HVAC units to install, it is essential to consider the size of the home. If the home is too large, meaning that it has multiple rooms and floors, you should think about installing various units or consider a zoned system for smooth temperature flow in all spaces. If you have a smaller home, a single HVAC system installation is convenient and recommended.
Conclusion
Many homeowners will have their HVAC system installed without considering that it needs proper maintenance in the future. For that reason, it is important to install the system at a good location for easy access for servicing and maintenance. For all these nuances, it is best to think about hiring a professional HVAC contractor to get the job done right the first time around.
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by admin | May 10, 2016 | HVAC
HVAC System
When homeowners experience problems with their air conditioning unit and heating systems, it calls for finances to make the repairs. It also involves the time it takes to fix the problem. However, when there is experienced and knowledgeable assistance, the result is improved efficiency. It is very critical to seek the help of a reputable HVAC contractor with the expertise necessary to resolve the issue in a fast, affordable and effective manner. When your HVAC system needs to be repaired, it can truly create havoc in the home. Below are some common problems that you may encounter, which will need professional help.
Air Conditioning Unit
A central air conditioning unit is the ideal option to keep the entire house much cooler and more comfortable. The common problem associated with an AC unit is the compressor’s failure to turn on. In addition, you may not feel cool air coming from the AC, which may be caused by insufficient air flow. If your AC unit is leaking water, it is also time to call a HVAC contractor.
Furnaces
All homeowners should be aware that a furnace should be serviced on an annual basis, if you want to have it properly functioning. If not, you may encounter problems. If parts need to be replaced, it is best to obtain the assistance of a qualified HVAC technician to install a new one, maintaining efficient operation of your furnace.
Heat Pumps
For your heat pumps, you should have a regular maintenance system, which can be provided by a HVAC contractor or HVAC company. In doing so, the heat pump will function at a higher comfort level.
Air Handler
The air handler is an important component of the HVAC system where it moves air efficiently and easily around the home. When this part is not working, your system will malfunction.
Boiler System
To keep your water heater operating at its peak, the boiler system also has to be properly and frequently maintained.
Thermostat Control
Your thermostat is essential to circulating heat and cool air within the home. You must know how to set the temperature to get the most energy efficiency. If your thermostat malfunctions, this objective won’t be met. So, make sure that it is good working condition. If flawed, you may need to call a HVAC contracting company.
Conclusion
Other problems that you may encounter are the leaking of your refrigerant, dirty air filters or clogging of your drain pipe clogged. Many of the common problems with your heating system and air conditioning unit are as a result of faulty installation, and poor or no maintenance. You can easily have your HVAC system working throughout the year by having regular maintenance from an HVAC service professional.
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by admin | May 3, 2016 | Heating System
Heating System
A heat pump can be effective in keeping you warm, if sufficient maintenance and care is applied, especially during the winter months. If regular maintenance is not conducted, then you may experience higher-than-usual electric bills. In addition, you may have to spend more money on repair. So be sure to consider ongoing heat pump maintenance as part of the preventative measure to having an efficient system. Yes, there are minor things that homeowners can do with their heat pump equipment, but for the most part, it would be more beneficial to hire a HVAC contract to provide regular maintenance or to handle the technical issues deriving from a much larger problem.
Air Filter
To make sure that you heat pump equipment is performing at its optimum level in the winter season, it is important to replace the air filters. Over time, the air filters will get dirty and this can greatly decrease efficiency, resulting in subsequent damage to the heating system. A HVAC contractor will ensure the appropriate fitting and accurate size of your air filter. These air filters have to be changed at least one time during a three month period.
Programmed Thermostat
Use a thermostat that can be programmed so that you can set schedules of heating to save money on electricity when you really don’t need any heating. A programmed thermostat will also help to run your heating system more efficiently. Choose the right programmable thermostat that will give you the most value.
Air Ducts
Make sure that your air duct is not leaking. If it is, then you will lose energy. A HVAC technical will seal the air ducts found in places like your basement, garage and attic. The technician will also check to make sure that your registers are installed properly. It is best to have your heating and cooling system serviced during the fall months in order to prepare for the cold.
Air Flow Increase
Be sure that the air duct system in each room comprises of a supply register and return register. Many homes do not have enough return registers to facilitate good air flow and so the result is lack of energy efficiency. With only one return register, the air flow will be obstructed with diminished air circulation, pressurizing some areas in the home. Improve the air flow in your home by cleaning the return ducts and the coils in your heating system.
Conclusion
Nine times out of ten, you may need a HVAC contractor to make sure that you have an efficiently working heat pump. Your contractor will also ensure that the heat pump equipment was properly installed in the first place. So, don’t wait until something happens. Call a HVAC company today for proper maintenance and installation of your heating system.
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