Top Reasons to Pay Attention to your Heating System During the Summer?

Heating System

Heating System

In every season, you should expect to have HVAC maintenance carried out in order to have your cooling and heating system working efficiently. Bear in mind, though, it does not mean that you have to focus your attention on your air conditioner unit in the summer months and the heating system in the winter. It is important to take the appropriate care of your HVAC system throughout the whole year so that it will always operate to its full capacity.

Summer Preparation

Yes, you may be hanging out on the beach during the summer and a heater is the farthest thing from your mind. Yet, you cannot wait until the winter is upon you before taking care of your furnace or other heating system. The season may arrive and that is when you discover problems with your heating system. It is better to approach a season, being confident that everything inside your home is working properly. Below are some of the top reasons why you cannot afford to neglect your heater during the summer.

Don’t Regret Your Decision

If you need to have a heater repair done as the winter comes to a close or if the heater is providing warning signals of malfunction, you may need a new heater. For this reason, you should not ignore the signs. If you don’t take immediate action, you may regret your decision. You should not wait to schedule a repair at the last minute. If so, you may be put on a waiting list and who wants to go through winter without a functional heating system? The HVAC technician needs time to inspect the situation and conduct the necessary repairs so that you can be comfortable during the winter months.

Advanced Maintenance

One of the things to prevent being an uncomfortable situation is putting your HVAC maintenance on a schedule with a HVAC contractor. Therefore, try to have a healthy heating system at all times by frequent maintenance. There are various tasks that are involved with furnace maintenance and some of these include cleaning dirt and dust, inspecting the air flow, lubrication of moving parts, and thermostat testing. Doing this in the summer makes you prepared for the winter.

Heat Pump

Heat pumps are generally used both in the winter and in the summertime. If you do not have your heat pump repaired, then the choice will also affect your air conditioner unit. You will be switching your system to cooling during the summer, but that doesn’t mean that you should completely ignore any heating issues until the winter.

Proper Ventilation

Both heating system and cooling system utilize the same ventilation to function, especially when your system uses forced air. For this reason, you have to keep the air ducts clean, not only to improve air quality, but also to prevent this from negatively impacting your HVAC system’s efficiency. When you have problems with your heating system, it can also result in an increase in your summer’s energy bill.

Conclusion

Be sure that you change your air filters on a frequent basis, even during the summer. Contact a HVAC contractor or HVAC technician today to schedule an overall check on your heating system and cooling system.

Image credit: https://www.flickr.com/photos/46669634@N06/13118275535/

The Best Methods of Air Duct Cleaning

Air duct cleaning

Air duct cleaning

Most of the residential and commercial buildings these days are usually erected with ventilation, HVAC, heating or air conditioning ducts. Since these are tightly assembled, it is rare that stale air or fresh air will circulate at the same time. If this occurs, then there may be accumulated pollutants in the air ducts. This will typically create air that is unhealthy for everyone living in the home. Subsequently, these same pollutants will become irritants, negatively impacting the health of the occupants of the building. In many cases, people will suffer from respiratory conditions and in other cases, the pollutants could likely cause damage to the home.

Reducing or Eliminating Pollutants

When you clean the HVAC air ducts, it will drastically eliminate or reduce the pollutants, creating healthier air and improving the health of the occupants. There are several suggestions for air duct cleaning. However, it is best to hire a HVAC contractor with more knowledge about the best practices for air duct cleaning. In so doing, the project will be done more properly and it will reduce the appearance of annoying rodents.

The Disadvantage

The disadvantage of air duct cleaning if you do this yourself is that you could ultimately damage the air ducts. So, to improve the air quality in your home, it is strongly recommended to get professional assistance. The HVAC technician will be able to tell when your next duct cleaning will be necessary. It is especially important, though, to know as much as you can about air duct cleaning so as to establish the one that is ideal for you. While you will be relying on a professional HVAC contractor, you will still have personal knowledge about what is involved and the methods used.

Common Methods

The most common methods used for air duct cleaning over the years is industry standard. As time goes on, advancements are being made to continue improving the methods involved in the process. However, for now, the methods employed are as such:

  • Power Vacuum or Air Sweep – this is a meticulous method of duct cleaning, although, more expensive. It does the best job of removing dirt in an extremely careful manner.
  • Point of Contact – while this may not be as thorough as the air sweep method, it is safer for the vents and air ducts. It is also less expensive, but still uses a vacuum, and spinning brush as the best cleaning tools
  • Removing the Source – this is the most common of all three methods for air duct cleaning. Mechanical agitation loosens the dirt and debris and extraction helps to remove everything entirely in a safe manner.

Conclusion

Methods of air duct cleaning have been around since the 1900s. However, the techniques have evolved since that time due to the work done by knowledgeable and experienced HVAC contractors. When you hire a professional HVAC technician, you stand a better chance to have improved air quality in your home.

Image credit: https://www.flickr.com/photos/airductcleaning/3054209713/

Commercial and Residential HVAC System Comparison

Commercial HVAC System

Commercial HVAC System

There are a wide range of HVAC systems, but the two main ones are commercial HVAC system and residential HVAC system. Residential systems are used in people’s homes and commercial systems are used in major retail stores, warehouses, office buildings, and other large buildings.

Both Systems

Both of these systems have similar functions such as ventilation, heating, and cooling. However, they do have just a few differences such as:

  • Size
  • Power
  • Drainage
  • Location
  • Complexity
  • Manufacture
  • Features

There are HVAC companies that do specialize in commercial and residential systems. There are others that only specialize in cooling systems or heating systems. This will help to explain the reasons for the services being different. Some of the differences have exceptions, but they are mostly the same. Let’s take a closer look.

The Complexity

Due to the size and complexity of the commercial HVAC system, it has to be installed on the building’s roof. The reason is to ensure adaptability and space. The type of commercial system chosen will depend on various factors such as the number of occupants in the building, the varying temperatures, scheduled events and the number of hours the business operates. Other factors include items being sold, type of inventory, and number of windows in the building.

The Size

Of course, the commercial HVAC system is going to be larger than the residential system. This is a visible difference and the reason is that one heats and cools a larger space. So, the size will be different between the two and so will the power. The thermostats and dampers are also different in size and scope.

The Location

Residential HVAC systems are usually found at the side of a house. In some cases, you may find it in someone’s backyard. On the other hand, commercial HVAC systems are located in either swamp coolers or roof of a building as mentioned before. The roof tends to be the most common installation area chosen by most HVAC contractors. Why? Here are some reasons:

  • The indoor space is needed to conduct business in a commercial aspect and so a large HVAC system would only take up too much indoor space. It also can be less attractive if placed inside the building and more importantly, it functions better when installed on the roof
  • A commercial system would be too noisy and could be a disruption to business
  • It is easy to maintain on the roof. HVAC technicians can do repair and maintenance work without disrupting the business day
  • Vandalism and damages will be at a minimum because of less traffic on the roof where the commercial HVAC system is located

Conclusion

It is important to have a HVAC contractor to handle the maintenance of your air conditioning unit or heating system. It is still your responsibility, however, to make sure that you call a professional when it is necessary and before any malfunctioning occurs.

Image credit: https://www.flickr.com/photos/126494946@N02/14866511080/

 

Seasonal HVAC Maintenance: An Essential Guide for Every American Homeowner and Construction Professional

Seasonal HVAC Maintenance: An Essential Guide for Every American Homeowner and Construction Professional

Hello there, America! It’s that time of the year again – the time for our seasonal HVAC maintenance. Just like how our nation’s renowned landmarks like the Grand Canyon, Statue of Liberty, and the Golden Gate Bridge require regular upkeep to retain their splendor, so does your HVAC system to ensure efficient performance and longevity.

At National Air Warehouse, timely maintenance of your HVAC system is a tradition as essential as the Fourth of July fireworks, Thanksgiving turkey, or the timeless joy of a ballpark frank at a summer baseball game. So, let’s dive into this comprehensive guide to seasonal HVAC maintenance, keeping your home as comforting as a spring morning in Shenandoah Valley or a winter’s evening in Vermont’s ski resorts.

Understanding the Importance of Seasonal HVAC Maintenance

Just as roads in Yellowstone National Park close for winter to protect both visitors and delicate ecosystems, or as the Washington Monument undergoes routine inspections to stand tall, your HVAC system requires regular attention. Just as these national treasures serve a significant role, your HVAC system is the heart of your home’s comfort. It needs to be looked after regularly, ensuring it’s always in top form to keep your home cozy during the chilling winters of Alaska or cool in the sweltering summers of Arizona.

Not only does proper maintenance ensure smooth functioning, but it also aids in energy efficiency, preventing sudden breakdowns and saving you hefty repair costs – just as regular upkeep of our national parks and monuments helps save taxpayer money in the long run.

Seasonal HVAC Maintenance: A Four-Season Approach

  1. Spring: The AC Tune-Up

As the snow in the Rockies begins to melt and cherry blossoms bloom in Washington D.C, it’s time to prep your air conditioning system for the warmer months ahead. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters, checking coolant levels, inspecting the condenser coil, and ensuring the system is free of leaks. 

  1. Summer: Keep it Cool and Efficient

When the kids are out of school and families across the nation are enjoying hot dogs, apple pies, and the thrill of roller coasters in places like Disneyland, it’s crucial to keep a tab on your HVAC system’s performance. Regular cleaning, checking thermostat settings, and inspecting the refrigerant lines are essential.

  1. Autumn: Prep the Heater

As the autumn leaves start to fall in Central Park and families plan their Thanksgiving feasts, it’s time to ready your heating system for the cold months. This involves cleaning the heating ducts, inspecting the heat exchanger, and checking the pilot control.

  1. Winter: Keep it Running Smooth

As the streets of Chicago are wrapped in a white blanket and the Christmas lights sparkle across America, routine HVAC maintenance checks like thermostat calibration, cleaning of components, and inspection of gas connections are necessary.

The Essential Seasonal HVAC Maintenance Checklist

Here is an ordered list of essential seasonal HVAC maintenance tasks every homeowner and construction professional should be mindful of:

  1. Replace or Clean Filters: A vital task that should be done every season to ensure optimal airflow and system efficiency.
  1. Inspect the Thermostat: Regular checking and calibration are necessary to ensure the system is performing at its best.
  2. Check and Clean the Condenser Coils: A key summer task to help your AC run efficiently and cool your home.
  3. Inspect the Heat Exchanger and Burner: A must-do in autumn to ready your heating system for the winter chill.
  4. Check the Refrigerant Level: Essential for keeping your home cool during the scorching summer heat.
  5. Inspect Gas Connections: An important winter task to ensure the safe operation of your heating system and to prevent potential fire hazards.
  6. Check System Controls: To ensure your system starts, operates, and shuts off correctly.
  7. Clean and Adjust Blower Components: This ensures proper airflow for greater comfort levels.

Remember, keeping up with this maintenance checklist not only protects your HVAC investment but also contributes to a greener environment by improving your system’s efficiency and reducing its energy consumption.

Incorporating Seasonal HVAC Maintenance into Your National Holidays’ Schedule

Yes, we know, your calendar is already filled with exciting national holidays and travel plans to famous tourist spots. But incorporating HVAC maintenance into your routine can be as simple as changing your clocks for daylight savings time. Consider tying your HVAC checkups to our beloved national holidays:

– Memorial Day: An excellent reminder to prep your AC for the summer heat.

– Labor Day: Perfect timing to begin preparing your heating system for fall and winter.

– New Year’s Day: A fitting start to a new year by ensuring your HVAC system is in top shape for the remaining winter months.

These holidays not only mark the changing of the seasons but also serve as convenient reminders to schedule your HVAC maintenance. It’s like having a personal HVAC calendar that also involves fireworks, barbecues, and the spirit of celebration!

Conclusion

Seasonal HVAC maintenance is as fundamental to your home as our national monuments are to America. Just as we take pride in the majesty of Mount Rushmore or the awe-inspiring beauty of the Grand Tetons, let’s also take pride in maintaining our homes. By performing seasonal HVAC maintenance, we ensure our homes remain our personal comfort sanctuaries – be it enduring the baking heat of Death Valley’s summer or basking in the warmth during a snowy winter in Maine.

Here at National Air Warehouse, we’re committed to helping you navigate the path of HVAC maintenance. We’re just as passionate about keeping your homes comfortable as we are about appreciating the beauty of our nation. As we journey through the seasons together, remember, HVAC maintenance isn’t just a task; it’s a tradition, a testament of our respect for comfort, efficiency, and most importantly, our love for our homes and our nation. 

As Benjamin Franklin said, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” So let’s embrace the practice of regular HVAC maintenance and ensure our homes are as magnificent and inviting as our great American landscapes.