Mold is a part of nature, and usually not a problem for people– until it comes indoors. Believe it or not, the indoor spaces within a home are not normally hospitable environments for mold. These spores prefer damp, dark places with little air movement, and as long as your home does not fit this description then they will not be able to survive and thrive there.
Of course, a home that harbors moisture in the form of excessive humidity, or suffers from inadequate ventilation, may become the perfect breeding ground for these uninvited guests. For instance, we often find mold growing inside dirty ductwork, damp basements and bathrooms that don’t have ventilating fans.
These spores can be harmful to your health. They cause allergic reactions such as dermatitis, and can aggravate asthma or cause respiratory problems. The key to reducing mold growth in the home is to reduce moisture levels and provide adequate ventilation and filtration. This creates an inhospitable environment for these spores and prevents them from spreading throughout your home via your forced-air HVAC system.
You can use various means to reduce moisture, Portable and whole-house dehumidifiers remove moisture from the air, warm it and release it back into your home as dry air. Whole-house air purifiers (air cleaners) are installed on your home’s heating and cooling system and remove most of the airborne spores and other contaminants circulating throughout your home.
UV (ultraviolet) lights are another option for reducing spores and keeping them from reproducing. A UV light unit is installed on your system so that air passing through it is disinfected.
A simple way to keep spores from growing? Make sure that your A/C drain pans are emptied regularly. Water that accumulates here is an ideal breeding ground for mold.
Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).For more information about Indoor Air Quality and other HVAC topics,click here to visit our website
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Reducing Mold with UV Light
Mold growth in HVAC systems is a main contributor to poor indoor air quality. Mold spores are present in nature and in the home, and most often establish themselves in moist environments such as bathrooms and kitchens. Unfortunately, your heating and cooling system is one of their favorite places to hang out.
Ignoring a mold problem can create an even more serious issue, so it should be taken care of immediately. Mold allergies are a serious problem for many people. Anyone who is exposed to poor indoor air quality for a prolonged period of time is at a higher risk for developing some sort of respiratory complication.
What can you do about mold growth in your home? There are some important steps you can take. Keeping the relative humidity in your home around 50% will discourage mold growth. Another method for controlling mold is UV light.
It has been found that ultraviolet radiation is an effective way to combat mold and other airborne bacteria in the home. UV rays can be used individually or can be combined with an EAC (Electronic Air Cleaner) to prevent or diminish the health risks that mold presents. UV light is able to restrict the growth of germs, allergens, and bacteria, as well.
With UV light air purifiers, ultraviolet energy waves are used to successfully kill microorganisms found in an indoor atmosphere. The UV radiation must make direct contact with the harmful bacteria to make sure that it is exterminated. The ultraviolet rays then infiltrate the organism, causing the molecular bonds to stop functioning properly and destroying the cells. This method of doing away with mold spores in the HVAC system kills or sterilizes germs, rendering them unable to reproduce. This is an effective solution for reducing the allergens in your home and improving your indoor air quality.
Designed to work within your forced air heating and cooling system, an HVAC UV whole house air purifier installs directly into the ductwork to purify the air that passes through the system. Instead of just blowing air around, you can turn that air movement into an air purification machine.
Another advantage to UV light air purifiers is the fact that they have no odor and are silent. Light bulbs usually need to be replaced every 12-15 months or so if the UV air purifier is run twenty-four hours a day, seven day a week.
Indoor air quality is an issue that is quickly becoming a priority in homes across the country. Many new homes are built tighter for energy efficiency. Indoor air quality in these homes can suffer due to lack of inadequate ventilation which leads to the buildup of harmful mold and other contaminants. Your HVAC system can become the channel through which these substances are spread. We can help you find solutions to poor air quality, so ask us about UV light and other ways that you can create cleaner, healthier indoor air for you and your family.
Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).For more information about Indoor Air Quality and other HVAC topics,click here to visit our website.
Ignoring a mold problem can create an even more serious issue, so it should be taken care of immediately. Mold allergies are a serious problem for many people. Anyone who is exposed to poor indoor air quality for a prolonged period of time is at a higher risk for developing some sort of respiratory complication.
What can you do about mold growth in your home? There are some important steps you can take. Keeping the relative humidity in your home around 50% will discourage mold growth. Another method for controlling mold is UV light.
It has been found that ultraviolet radiation is an effective way to combat mold and other airborne bacteria in the home. UV rays can be used individually or can be combined with an EAC (Electronic Air Cleaner) to prevent or diminish the health risks that mold presents. UV light is able to restrict the growth of germs, allergens, and bacteria, as well.
With UV light air purifiers, ultraviolet energy waves are used to successfully kill microorganisms found in an indoor atmosphere. The UV radiation must make direct contact with the harmful bacteria to make sure that it is exterminated. The ultraviolet rays then infiltrate the organism, causing the molecular bonds to stop functioning properly and destroying the cells. This method of doing away with mold spores in the HVAC system kills or sterilizes germs, rendering them unable to reproduce. This is an effective solution for reducing the allergens in your home and improving your indoor air quality.
Designed to work within your forced air heating and cooling system, an HVAC UV whole house air purifier installs directly into the ductwork to purify the air that passes through the system. Instead of just blowing air around, you can turn that air movement into an air purification machine.
Another advantage to UV light air purifiers is the fact that they have no odor and are silent. Light bulbs usually need to be replaced every 12-15 months or so if the UV air purifier is run twenty-four hours a day, seven day a week.
Indoor air quality is an issue that is quickly becoming a priority in homes across the country. Many new homes are built tighter for energy efficiency. Indoor air quality in these homes can suffer due to lack of inadequate ventilation which leads to the buildup of harmful mold and other contaminants. Your HVAC system can become the channel through which these substances are spread. We can help you find solutions to poor air quality, so ask us about UV light and other ways that you can create cleaner, healthier indoor air for you and your family.
Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).For more information about Indoor Air Quality and other HVAC topics,click here to visit our website.
Calculating your Electricity Use
There are several reasons why you might want to calculate your home electricity use. Reducing consumption starts with knowing how much you’re using, which appliances are the biggest draw and how you can operate your appliances more efficiently. Also, if you’re trying to decide whether to invest in a more energy-efficient appliance, you may want to estimate appliance energy consumption.
The formula for estimating an appliance’s energy use is as follows:
Wattage × Hours Used Per Day ÷ 1000 = Daily Kilowatt-hour (kWh) consumption
(1 kilowatt (kW) = 1,000 Watts)
If you multiply this by the number of days you use the appliance during the year for the annual consumption, you can then calculate the annual cost to run an appliance by multiplying the kWh per year by your local utility’s rate per kWh consumed.
Here are 2 examples:
Window fan:
(200 Watts × 4 hours/day × 120 days/year) ÷ 1000
= 96 kWh × 8.5 cents/kWh
= $8.16/year
Personal Computer and Monitor:
(120 + 150 Watts × 4 hours/day × 365 days/year) ÷ 1000
= 394 kWh × 8.5 cents/kWh
= $33.51/year
You’ll find the wattage of your appliance or device either on the packaging or stamped on the appliance itself. The wattage listed is the maximum power drawn by the appliance. Since many appliances have a range of settings (for example, the volume on a radio), the actual amount of power consumed depends on the setting used at any one time.
If the wattage is not listed on the appliance, you can still estimate it by finding the current draw (in amperes) and multiplying that by the voltage used by the appliance. Most appliances in the United States use 120 volts. Larger appliances, such as clothes dryers and electric cook tops, use 240 volts. The amperes might be stamped on the unit in place of the wattage. If not, find a clamp-on ammeter—an electrician’s tool that clamps around one of the two wires on the appliance—to measure the current flowing through it. You can obtain this type of ammeter in stores that sell electrical and electronic equipment. Take a reading while the device is running; this is the actual amount of current being used at that instant.
When measuring electricity use, remember that many appliances continue to draw a small amount of power even when they are switched off. These “phantom loads” occur in most appliances that use electricity, such as VCRs, televisions, stereos, computers, and kitchen appliances. Most phantom loads will increase the appliance’s energy consumption a few watt-hours. These loads can be avoided by unplugging the appliance or using a power strip and using the switch on the power strip to cut all power to the appliance.
The U.S. Department of Energy offers a lot of information about appliance energy use, including comparisons of different appliances. Click here to learn more.
If you want to reduce your energy bills, consider ways that you can reduce your electricity use in the home. Calculating the energy consumption of your appliances is a good first step. Contact us for options with high efficiency air conditioning systems, too.
Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).For more information about Indoor Air Quality and other HVAC topics,click here to visit our website.
The formula for estimating an appliance’s energy use is as follows:
Wattage × Hours Used Per Day ÷ 1000 = Daily Kilowatt-hour (kWh) consumption
(1 kilowatt (kW) = 1,000 Watts)
If you multiply this by the number of days you use the appliance during the year for the annual consumption, you can then calculate the annual cost to run an appliance by multiplying the kWh per year by your local utility’s rate per kWh consumed.
Here are 2 examples:
Window fan:
(200 Watts × 4 hours/day × 120 days/year) ÷ 1000
= 96 kWh × 8.5 cents/kWh
= $8.16/year
Personal Computer and Monitor:
(120 + 150 Watts × 4 hours/day × 365 days/year) ÷ 1000
= 394 kWh × 8.5 cents/kWh
= $33.51/year
You’ll find the wattage of your appliance or device either on the packaging or stamped on the appliance itself. The wattage listed is the maximum power drawn by the appliance. Since many appliances have a range of settings (for example, the volume on a radio), the actual amount of power consumed depends on the setting used at any one time.
If the wattage is not listed on the appliance, you can still estimate it by finding the current draw (in amperes) and multiplying that by the voltage used by the appliance. Most appliances in the United States use 120 volts. Larger appliances, such as clothes dryers and electric cook tops, use 240 volts. The amperes might be stamped on the unit in place of the wattage. If not, find a clamp-on ammeter—an electrician’s tool that clamps around one of the two wires on the appliance—to measure the current flowing through it. You can obtain this type of ammeter in stores that sell electrical and electronic equipment. Take a reading while the device is running; this is the actual amount of current being used at that instant.
When measuring electricity use, remember that many appliances continue to draw a small amount of power even when they are switched off. These “phantom loads” occur in most appliances that use electricity, such as VCRs, televisions, stereos, computers, and kitchen appliances. Most phantom loads will increase the appliance’s energy consumption a few watt-hours. These loads can be avoided by unplugging the appliance or using a power strip and using the switch on the power strip to cut all power to the appliance.
The U.S. Department of Energy offers a lot of information about appliance energy use, including comparisons of different appliances. Click here to learn more.
If you want to reduce your energy bills, consider ways that you can reduce your electricity use in the home. Calculating the energy consumption of your appliances is a good first step. Contact us for options with high efficiency air conditioning systems, too.
Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).For more information about Indoor Air Quality and other HVAC topics,click here to visit our website.
Saturday, October 9, 2010
Tips for Saving Money when Using Appliances and Home Electronics
As mentioned in previous posts, your appliances and home electronics are responsible for about 20 percent of your energy bills. These appliances and electronics include everything from clothes washers and dryers, to computers, to water heaters. By shopping for energy-efficient appliances and turning off appliances when they’re not in use you can achieve real savings in your monthly energy bill.
Here are some other helpful tips for saving money while operating your appliances and home electronics:
■Air dry dishes instead of using your dishwasher’s drying cycle.
■Clean the lint filter in the dryer after every load to improve air circulation.
■Air-dry clothes on clothes lines or drying racks. Air-drying is recommended by clothing manufacturers for some fabrics.
■Consider buying a laptop for your next computer upgrade; they use much less energy than desktop computers.
■Don’t over-dry your clothes. If your machine has a moisture sensor, use it.
■Dry towels and heavier cottons in a separate load from lighter-weight clothes.
■Make sure power management is activated on your computer.
■Unplug your appliance or use a power strip and use the switch on the power strip to cut all power to the appliance. Many appliances continue to draw a small amount of power when they are switched off. These “phantom” loads occur in most appliances that use electricity, such as VCRs, televisions, stereos, computers, and kitchen appliances. In the average home, 75% of the electricity used to power home electronics and appliances is consumed while the products are turned off.
■For older appliances, use a power controlling device (Beth B.—link to blog 44?) to reduce the energy consumption of the appliance’s electric motor.
■Regularly inspect your dryer vent to ensure it is not blocked. This will save energy and may prevent a fire. Manufacturers recommend using rigid venting material, not plastic vents that may collapse and cause blockages.
■Before purchasing an appliance or electronic device, estimate its annual energy cost using this guide.
■Use rechargeable batteries whenever possible. Studies have shown that using rechargeable batteries for products like cordless phones and PDAs is more cost-effective than throwaway batteries.
■Don’t use your computer screen saver. Automatic switching to sleep mode or manually turning monitors off is always the better energy-saving strategy.
■Put the AC adapter for your laptop on a power strip that can be turned off (or will turn off automatically); the transformer in the AC adapter draws power continuously, even when the laptop is not plugged into the adapter.
■Unplug battery chargers when the batteries are fully charged or the chargers are not in use.
■Use the cool-down cycle to allow the clothes to finish drying with the residual heat in the dryer.
■Wash and dry full loads. If you are washing a small load, use the appropriate water-level setting.
■Turn off your monitor when you’re away from your PC for 20 minutes or more. If you will be away for two hours or more, turn off your computer and monitor.
Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).For more information about Indoor Air Quality and other HVAC topics,click here to visit our website.
Here are some other helpful tips for saving money while operating your appliances and home electronics:
■Air dry dishes instead of using your dishwasher’s drying cycle.
■Clean the lint filter in the dryer after every load to improve air circulation.
■Air-dry clothes on clothes lines or drying racks. Air-drying is recommended by clothing manufacturers for some fabrics.
■Consider buying a laptop for your next computer upgrade; they use much less energy than desktop computers.
■Don’t over-dry your clothes. If your machine has a moisture sensor, use it.
■Dry towels and heavier cottons in a separate load from lighter-weight clothes.
■Make sure power management is activated on your computer.
■Unplug your appliance or use a power strip and use the switch on the power strip to cut all power to the appliance. Many appliances continue to draw a small amount of power when they are switched off. These “phantom” loads occur in most appliances that use electricity, such as VCRs, televisions, stereos, computers, and kitchen appliances. In the average home, 75% of the electricity used to power home electronics and appliances is consumed while the products are turned off.
■For older appliances, use a power controlling device (Beth B.—link to blog 44?) to reduce the energy consumption of the appliance’s electric motor.
■Regularly inspect your dryer vent to ensure it is not blocked. This will save energy and may prevent a fire. Manufacturers recommend using rigid venting material, not plastic vents that may collapse and cause blockages.
■Before purchasing an appliance or electronic device, estimate its annual energy cost using this guide.
■Use rechargeable batteries whenever possible. Studies have shown that using rechargeable batteries for products like cordless phones and PDAs is more cost-effective than throwaway batteries.
■Don’t use your computer screen saver. Automatic switching to sleep mode or manually turning monitors off is always the better energy-saving strategy.
■Put the AC adapter for your laptop on a power strip that can be turned off (or will turn off automatically); the transformer in the AC adapter draws power continuously, even when the laptop is not plugged into the adapter.
■Unplug battery chargers when the batteries are fully charged or the chargers are not in use.
■Use the cool-down cycle to allow the clothes to finish drying with the residual heat in the dryer.
■Wash and dry full loads. If you are washing a small load, use the appropriate water-level setting.
■Turn off your monitor when you’re away from your PC for 20 minutes or more. If you will be away for two hours or more, turn off your computer and monitor.
Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).For more information about Indoor Air Quality and other HVAC topics,click here to visit our website.
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Improving the Energy-Efficiency of Existing Windows
We’ve talked about selecting energy-efficient windows. But, if purchasing new windows is out of the budget, there are ways that you can improve the efficiency of your existing windows without a big investment in time or money. You can use any or all of these methods of keeping your conditioned air from leaking out through windows, and it’s well worth the effort. Sealing up your windows can save 30% of your heating and cooling from literally going out the window.
Adding storm windows
If you have old windows, the best solution is to replace them. However, if that isn’t possible, a less expensive option is to use storm windows. Some types of storm windows are also a good option for those living in apartments.
Even though storm windows add little to the insulating performance of single-glazed windows that are in good condition, studies have found that they can help to reduce air movement into and out of existing windows. Therefore, they help reduce heating and cooling costs. Storm windows are available for most types of windows, and they can be installed on the interior or exterior of the primary window. They range from the inexpensive plastic sheets or films designed for one heating season, to triple-track glass units with low emissivity coatings that offer many years of use.
Mid-priced storm windows may use glass, plastic panels, or special plastic sheets that have specific optical qualities. Those made of polycarbonate plastic or laminated glass also offer a high degree of resistance to breaking during storms and/or from intruders.
Caulking and weatherstripping
Most experts agree that caulking and weatherstripping—two simple air sealing techniques—will pay for themselves in energy savings within one year. Applying these techniques will also alleviate drafts and help your home feel warmer when it’s cool outside.
Before air sealing your home, you should first detect where the air leaks are coming from. For a thorough and accurate measurement of air leakage in your home, hire a qualified technician to conduct an energy assessment, particularly a blower door test. This test, which depressurizes a home, can reveal the location of many leaks. A complete energy assessment will also help determine areas in your home that need more insulation.
Window treatments and coverings
You can choose window treatments or coverings not only for decoration but also for saving energy. Carefully selected and installed window treatments can reduce heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer. This might include awnings, blinds, draperies, insulated panels, shades, shutters and films.
Window treatments, however, aren’t effective at reducing air leakage or infiltration. You need to caulk and weatherstrip around windows to reduce air leakage.
These affordable solutions to leaky windows help keep your conditioned air where it belongs. However, if your home has very old and/or inefficient windows, it might be more cost-effective to replace them than to make these improvements. New, energy-efficient windows eventually pay for themselves through lower heating and cooling costs.
Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).For more information about Improving the Energy-Efficiency and other HVAC topics,click here to visit our website.
Adding storm windows
If you have old windows, the best solution is to replace them. However, if that isn’t possible, a less expensive option is to use storm windows. Some types of storm windows are also a good option for those living in apartments.
Even though storm windows add little to the insulating performance of single-glazed windows that are in good condition, studies have found that they can help to reduce air movement into and out of existing windows. Therefore, they help reduce heating and cooling costs. Storm windows are available for most types of windows, and they can be installed on the interior or exterior of the primary window. They range from the inexpensive plastic sheets or films designed for one heating season, to triple-track glass units with low emissivity coatings that offer many years of use.
Mid-priced storm windows may use glass, plastic panels, or special plastic sheets that have specific optical qualities. Those made of polycarbonate plastic or laminated glass also offer a high degree of resistance to breaking during storms and/or from intruders.
Caulking and weatherstripping
Most experts agree that caulking and weatherstripping—two simple air sealing techniques—will pay for themselves in energy savings within one year. Applying these techniques will also alleviate drafts and help your home feel warmer when it’s cool outside.
Before air sealing your home, you should first detect where the air leaks are coming from. For a thorough and accurate measurement of air leakage in your home, hire a qualified technician to conduct an energy assessment, particularly a blower door test. This test, which depressurizes a home, can reveal the location of many leaks. A complete energy assessment will also help determine areas in your home that need more insulation.
Window treatments and coverings
You can choose window treatments or coverings not only for decoration but also for saving energy. Carefully selected and installed window treatments can reduce heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer. This might include awnings, blinds, draperies, insulated panels, shades, shutters and films.
Window treatments, however, aren’t effective at reducing air leakage or infiltration. You need to caulk and weatherstrip around windows to reduce air leakage.
These affordable solutions to leaky windows help keep your conditioned air where it belongs. However, if your home has very old and/or inefficient windows, it might be more cost-effective to replace them than to make these improvements. New, energy-efficient windows eventually pay for themselves through lower heating and cooling costs.
Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).For more information about Improving the Energy-Efficiency and other HVAC topics,click here to visit our website.
Saturday, October 2, 2010
How Air Cleaners Improve Indoor Air Quality
Although they may seem like a new innovation, air purifiers have been around for many years. While early efforts were little more than masks that filtered out large particles, today’s air cleaners now have the technology to protect you and your family from even microscopic airborne pollutants. And, since most Americans stay indoors an average of 90% of the time, providing fresher and cleaner air has never been more important.
Allergens like smoke, mold spores, pollen, bacteria, viruses, pet dander, and other pollutants can irritate your lungs and immune system. Unfortunately, most of these irritants cannot be seen by the naked eye. To remove these allergens, air purifiers typically use filters, electrical attraction, or ozone.
Air filters utilize fine sieves that filter particles from circulating air. As air flows into the air purifier, the finer the sieve used, the smaller the particles it traps. The accepted benchmark for air filters has been set by the High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters, which are guaranteed to trap 99.97% of airborne particles larger than 0.3 microns. Microns are the standard unit used for measuring air particles.
The naked eye cannot see anything smaller than 10 microns, so pollutants like bacteria and viruses escape detection. Room air conditioner filters only capture particles 10.0 microns or larger. HEPA filters remove smaller allergens like dust, smoke, chemicals, asbestos, pollen, and pet dander. The more times the air passes through the HEPA filter, the cleaner the air becomes. Special ducting is needed for HEPA filters on systems.
Electrical attraction is another technology utilized by air purifiers to trap particles. Three types of air cleaners work using electrical attraction: electrostatic precipitating cleaners, electret filters, and negative ion generators.
Electrostatic precipitating cleaners or “electronic” air purifiers draw particles in by fan and charge them with a series of high-voltage wires. Several plates carry the opposite electrical charge and attract the contaminants as they pass by. Electronic air purifiers are perfect for individuals who don’t want to worry about the costly replacements of HEPA filters. The downside to these units is that many create a byproduct, ozone.
Electret filters in air purifiers use synthetic fibers that create static charges to attract particles. These filters are offered in a variety of types including plain, pleated, disposable or reusable. The type of filter you need will determine how often the filter requires replacement.
Negative ion generators or ionic air purifiers use tiny, charged wires or needles to create gas molecules with negative charges or ions that adhere to the airborne particles and collect in the filter.
Instead of using filters to trap particles, stand-alone ozone generators use high voltage electrical currents to convert oxygen to ozone, which acts as a powerful oxidant and breaks down molecules and microorganisms in the air. Several tests have proved that ozone generators are not very effective at removing indoor allergens. Ozone is, in fact, a powerful lung irritant and can be hazardous to your health. Both ozone generators and ionic air cleaners emit ozone, so the EPA and the American Lung Association advise against using ozone generators.
It’s important to get the facts about air cleaners, their advantages and disadvantages, and find out which one is right for you and your home. Ask us about how air cleaners work to provide you with fresh, clean indoor air.
Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).For more information about How Air Cleaners Improve Indoor Air Quality and other HVAC topics,click here to visit our website.
Allergens like smoke, mold spores, pollen, bacteria, viruses, pet dander, and other pollutants can irritate your lungs and immune system. Unfortunately, most of these irritants cannot be seen by the naked eye. To remove these allergens, air purifiers typically use filters, electrical attraction, or ozone.
Air filters utilize fine sieves that filter particles from circulating air. As air flows into the air purifier, the finer the sieve used, the smaller the particles it traps. The accepted benchmark for air filters has been set by the High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters, which are guaranteed to trap 99.97% of airborne particles larger than 0.3 microns. Microns are the standard unit used for measuring air particles.
The naked eye cannot see anything smaller than 10 microns, so pollutants like bacteria and viruses escape detection. Room air conditioner filters only capture particles 10.0 microns or larger. HEPA filters remove smaller allergens like dust, smoke, chemicals, asbestos, pollen, and pet dander. The more times the air passes through the HEPA filter, the cleaner the air becomes. Special ducting is needed for HEPA filters on systems.
Electrical attraction is another technology utilized by air purifiers to trap particles. Three types of air cleaners work using electrical attraction: electrostatic precipitating cleaners, electret filters, and negative ion generators.
Electrostatic precipitating cleaners or “electronic” air purifiers draw particles in by fan and charge them with a series of high-voltage wires. Several plates carry the opposite electrical charge and attract the contaminants as they pass by. Electronic air purifiers are perfect for individuals who don’t want to worry about the costly replacements of HEPA filters. The downside to these units is that many create a byproduct, ozone.
Electret filters in air purifiers use synthetic fibers that create static charges to attract particles. These filters are offered in a variety of types including plain, pleated, disposable or reusable. The type of filter you need will determine how often the filter requires replacement.
Negative ion generators or ionic air purifiers use tiny, charged wires or needles to create gas molecules with negative charges or ions that adhere to the airborne particles and collect in the filter.
Instead of using filters to trap particles, stand-alone ozone generators use high voltage electrical currents to convert oxygen to ozone, which acts as a powerful oxidant and breaks down molecules and microorganisms in the air. Several tests have proved that ozone generators are not very effective at removing indoor allergens. Ozone is, in fact, a powerful lung irritant and can be hazardous to your health. Both ozone generators and ionic air cleaners emit ozone, so the EPA and the American Lung Association advise against using ozone generators.
It’s important to get the facts about air cleaners, their advantages and disadvantages, and find out which one is right for you and your home. Ask us about how air cleaners work to provide you with fresh, clean indoor air.
Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).For more information about How Air Cleaners Improve Indoor Air Quality and other HVAC topics,click here to visit our website.
The Whole-House Approach to HVAC Systems
Many of our customers come to us because they’re building a new home. New construction gives homeowners a unique opportunity to design their HVAC systems from scratch, with future energy-efficiency and indoor air quality in mind. So, the planning stage of the process is a good time to think about the heating and cooling systems in terms of a whole-house approach.
Designing and constructing an energy-efficient house in Northeast Florida requires careful planning and attention to details. A whole-house systems approach can help you and your architect develop a successful strategy for incorporating energy efficiency into your home’s design.
A whole-house systems approach considers the interaction between you, your building site, your climate, and these other elements or components of your home:
■Appliances and home electronics
■Insulation and air sealing
■Lighting and daylighting
■Heating and cooling
■Water heating
■Windows, doors and skylights
Each of these elements can be designed, and materials chosen, to enhance your home’s energy-efficiency in order to reduce utility bills and improve home comfort. We’ll cover these elements in future posts.
Builders and designers who use this approach recognize that the features of one component in the house can greatly affect other components, which ultimately affects the overall energy efficiency of the house. Choosing a builder who believes in the whole house approach to HVAC is a smart move that pays off in reduced utility bills, lower maintenance costs and improved air quality while you live in the home.
Some benefits of using a whole-house systems approach include:
■Reduced utility and maintenance costs
■Increased comfort
■Reduced noise
■A healthier and safer indoor environment
■Improved building durability.
So, if you’re building, be sure to work with contractors who understand how to use the whole house approach to ensure your future comfort. This approach is meant to help your home work smarter, not harder. And, it can be used with any home design. We can work with you and your builder to incorporate all related systems in a way that meets your specifications, so ask us about the whole house approach, and how to plan your Florida dream home with comfort and energy efficiency in mind.
Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).For more information about The Whole-House Approach and other HVAC topics,click here to visit our website.
Designing and constructing an energy-efficient house in Northeast Florida requires careful planning and attention to details. A whole-house systems approach can help you and your architect develop a successful strategy for incorporating energy efficiency into your home’s design.
A whole-house systems approach considers the interaction between you, your building site, your climate, and these other elements or components of your home:
■Appliances and home electronics
■Insulation and air sealing
■Lighting and daylighting
■Heating and cooling
■Water heating
■Windows, doors and skylights
Each of these elements can be designed, and materials chosen, to enhance your home’s energy-efficiency in order to reduce utility bills and improve home comfort. We’ll cover these elements in future posts.
Builders and designers who use this approach recognize that the features of one component in the house can greatly affect other components, which ultimately affects the overall energy efficiency of the house. Choosing a builder who believes in the whole house approach to HVAC is a smart move that pays off in reduced utility bills, lower maintenance costs and improved air quality while you live in the home.
Some benefits of using a whole-house systems approach include:
■Reduced utility and maintenance costs
■Increased comfort
■Reduced noise
■A healthier and safer indoor environment
■Improved building durability.
So, if you’re building, be sure to work with contractors who understand how to use the whole house approach to ensure your future comfort. This approach is meant to help your home work smarter, not harder. And, it can be used with any home design. We can work with you and your builder to incorporate all related systems in a way that meets your specifications, so ask us about the whole house approach, and how to plan your Florida dream home with comfort and energy efficiency in mind.
Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).For more information about The Whole-House Approach and other HVAC topics,click here to visit our website.
Saturday, September 25, 2010
2-Stage Air Conditioners Offer Efficient Comfort
Two-stage air conditioners offer a more efficient, energy-saving way to cool your home. Two-stage cooling means that the air conditioner or heat pump has a compressor with two levels of operation: high for hot summer days and low for milder days. Since the low setting can adequately meet household cooling demands about 80% of the time, a 2-stage unit runs for longer periods and produces more even temperatures.
Longer cooling cycles also translate to quieter, more efficient operation and enhanced humidity control. Compared to a single-stage unit, a 2-stage air conditioner or heat pump can remove twice as much moisture from the air. This is important because when moisture levels are high, there’s a higher potential for mold and other indoor air quality problems.
Two of the most important improvements to modern high-efficiency air conditioners are the 2-stage compressor and multi-speed condenser fan.
During the hottest weather, you may need the full capacity of your air conditioner to keep your home comfortable. During this full-time operation, your air conditioner runs at its maximum efficiency. But during moderate weather your air conditioner will cycle on and off to keep from over-cooling your home. This stop-and-go operation is inherently inefficient, since a lot of energy is wasted during the start-up and shut-down part of each cycle.
Air conditioning units with a 2-stage compressor and a multi-speed outdoor condenser fan operate at lower capacity during moderate weather. This results in cycles that are longer and more efficient. It also allows your system to remove more humidity from the air. When the weather is truly hot, they step up to full-speed operation to ensure your comfort.
Variable-capacity air conditioners are all more efficient than older units, but they work in different ways:
■Some 2-stage systems have two small compressors side-by-side. The first compressor operates alone during moderate weather. The second compressor kicks in only when needed during hot weather.
■The two-piston compressors run in one-piston mode during moderate weather and two-piston mode during hot weather.
■The multi-speed compressors actually turn at two different speeds to match the cooling load.
As A/C units evolve and become more efficient, engineers devise new ways of making them achieve better comfort. Two-stage air conditioners are one such innovation. Variable-speed blowers alter the speed of the blower motor to most efficiently match the output of the air conditioner’s compressor and condenser. This translates into better use of the available amount of cooling, less electricity consumption, and lower energy bills.
You can’t avoid the heat of summer, but with a 2-stage air conditioner you can reduce the cost of cooling your home and gain greater comfort throughout your home. You can learn more about air conditioners at www.energysavers.gov, or check out our demonstration of 2-stage cooling.
Two-stage air conditioners offer a more efficient, energy-saving way to cool your home. Two-stage cooling means that the air conditioner or heat pump has a compressor with two levels of operation: high for hot summer days and low for milder days. Since the low setting can adequately meet household cooling demands about 80% of the time, a 2-stage unit runs for longer periods and produces more even temperatures.
Longer cooling cycles also translate to quieter, more efficient operation and enhanced humidity control. Compared to a single-stage unit, a 2-stage air conditioner or heat pump can remove twice as much moisture from the air. This is important because when moisture levels are high, there’s a higher potential for mold and other indoor air quality problems.
Two of the most important improvements to modern high-efficiency air conditioners are the 2-stage compressor and multi-speed condenser fan.
During the hottest weather, you may need the full capacity of your air conditioner to keep your home comfortable. During this full-time operation, your air conditioner runs at its maximum efficiency. But during moderate weather your air conditioner will cycle on and off to keep from over-cooling your home. This stop-and-go operation is inherently inefficient, since a lot of energy is wasted during the start-up and shut-down part of each cycle.
Air conditioning units with a 2-stage compressor and a multi-speed outdoor condenser fan operate at lower capacity during moderate weather. This results in cycles that are longer and more efficient. It also allows your system to remove more humidity from the air. When the weather is truly hot, they step up to full-speed operation to ensure your comfort.
Variable-capacity air conditioners are all more efficient than older units, but they work in different ways:
■Some 2-stage systems have two small compressors side-by-side. The first compressor operates alone during moderate weather. The second compressor kicks in only when needed during hot weather.
■The two-piston compressors run in one-piston mode during moderate weather and two-piston mode during hot weather.
■The multi-speed compressors actually turn at two different speeds to match the cooling load.
As A/C units evolve and become more efficient, engineers devise new ways of making them achieve better comfort. Two-stage air conditioners are one such innovation. Variable-speed blowers alter the speed of the blower motor to most efficiently match the output of the air conditioner’s compressor and condenser. This translates into better use of the available amount of cooling, less electricity consumption, and lower energy bills.
You can’t avoid the heat of summer, but with a 2-stage air conditioner you can reduce the cost of cooling your home and gain greater comfort throughout your home. You can learn more about air conditioners at www.energysavers.gov.
Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).For more information about Ventilation and other HVAC topics,click here to visit our website.
Longer cooling cycles also translate to quieter, more efficient operation and enhanced humidity control. Compared to a single-stage unit, a 2-stage air conditioner or heat pump can remove twice as much moisture from the air. This is important because when moisture levels are high, there’s a higher potential for mold and other indoor air quality problems.
Two of the most important improvements to modern high-efficiency air conditioners are the 2-stage compressor and multi-speed condenser fan.
During the hottest weather, you may need the full capacity of your air conditioner to keep your home comfortable. During this full-time operation, your air conditioner runs at its maximum efficiency. But during moderate weather your air conditioner will cycle on and off to keep from over-cooling your home. This stop-and-go operation is inherently inefficient, since a lot of energy is wasted during the start-up and shut-down part of each cycle.
Air conditioning units with a 2-stage compressor and a multi-speed outdoor condenser fan operate at lower capacity during moderate weather. This results in cycles that are longer and more efficient. It also allows your system to remove more humidity from the air. When the weather is truly hot, they step up to full-speed operation to ensure your comfort.
Variable-capacity air conditioners are all more efficient than older units, but they work in different ways:
■Some 2-stage systems have two small compressors side-by-side. The first compressor operates alone during moderate weather. The second compressor kicks in only when needed during hot weather.
■The two-piston compressors run in one-piston mode during moderate weather and two-piston mode during hot weather.
■The multi-speed compressors actually turn at two different speeds to match the cooling load.
As A/C units evolve and become more efficient, engineers devise new ways of making them achieve better comfort. Two-stage air conditioners are one such innovation. Variable-speed blowers alter the speed of the blower motor to most efficiently match the output of the air conditioner’s compressor and condenser. This translates into better use of the available amount of cooling, less electricity consumption, and lower energy bills.
You can’t avoid the heat of summer, but with a 2-stage air conditioner you can reduce the cost of cooling your home and gain greater comfort throughout your home. You can learn more about air conditioners at www.energysavers.gov, or check out our demonstration of 2-stage cooling.
Two-stage air conditioners offer a more efficient, energy-saving way to cool your home. Two-stage cooling means that the air conditioner or heat pump has a compressor with two levels of operation: high for hot summer days and low for milder days. Since the low setting can adequately meet household cooling demands about 80% of the time, a 2-stage unit runs for longer periods and produces more even temperatures.
Longer cooling cycles also translate to quieter, more efficient operation and enhanced humidity control. Compared to a single-stage unit, a 2-stage air conditioner or heat pump can remove twice as much moisture from the air. This is important because when moisture levels are high, there’s a higher potential for mold and other indoor air quality problems.
Two of the most important improvements to modern high-efficiency air conditioners are the 2-stage compressor and multi-speed condenser fan.
During the hottest weather, you may need the full capacity of your air conditioner to keep your home comfortable. During this full-time operation, your air conditioner runs at its maximum efficiency. But during moderate weather your air conditioner will cycle on and off to keep from over-cooling your home. This stop-and-go operation is inherently inefficient, since a lot of energy is wasted during the start-up and shut-down part of each cycle.
Air conditioning units with a 2-stage compressor and a multi-speed outdoor condenser fan operate at lower capacity during moderate weather. This results in cycles that are longer and more efficient. It also allows your system to remove more humidity from the air. When the weather is truly hot, they step up to full-speed operation to ensure your comfort.
Variable-capacity air conditioners are all more efficient than older units, but they work in different ways:
■Some 2-stage systems have two small compressors side-by-side. The first compressor operates alone during moderate weather. The second compressor kicks in only when needed during hot weather.
■The two-piston compressors run in one-piston mode during moderate weather and two-piston mode during hot weather.
■The multi-speed compressors actually turn at two different speeds to match the cooling load.
As A/C units evolve and become more efficient, engineers devise new ways of making them achieve better comfort. Two-stage air conditioners are one such innovation. Variable-speed blowers alter the speed of the blower motor to most efficiently match the output of the air conditioner’s compressor and condenser. This translates into better use of the available amount of cooling, less electricity consumption, and lower energy bills.
You can’t avoid the heat of summer, but with a 2-stage air conditioner you can reduce the cost of cooling your home and gain greater comfort throughout your home. You can learn more about air conditioners at www.energysavers.gov.
Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).For more information about Ventilation and other HVAC topics,click here to visit our website.
Indoor Air Quality and Your Business: What You Should Know
Some of our commercial customers ask us what they should do to improve the quality of the indoor air in their businesses. Indoor air quality is one factor that can have a big effect on the health of both employees and visitors to your buildings.
However, diagnosing an indoor air quality problem can be tricky. It isn’t always obvious, and health symptoms are very similar to those of a cold or the flu. Here are some clues that your problem may be more than the common cold.
■Everyone gets sick at the same time.
■Everyone feels better as soon as they leave the premises.
■The onset of the symptoms comes suddenly after a change, like freshly painted walls.
■People feel better outdoors.
■A doctor has identified the symptoms of an indoor air quality-related illness.
If indoor air quality becomes an issue, what can be done? Let’s discuss six practical, low-cost measures that business owners can take to improve the quality of indoor air in their buildings.
1. Eliminate the source. Mold, school bus exhaust, garbage—all of these can be sources of indoor air quality problems. Small things like replacing moldy material, prohibiting cars and work vehicles from idling in or around garages and buildings, and keeping garbage out of rooms with HVAC equipment can do a lot to minimize air pollutants.
2. Exhaust at the source. The source of a pollutant cannot always be eliminated. Installing exhaust systems in employee lounges and kitchens, duplicating rooms, restrooms, and industrial areas can remove pollutants before they spread throughout the building.
3. Ventilate the air. You really need to replace polluted air with cleaner, conditioned outdoor air.
4. Control the exposure. This involves changing either the time or location of exposure to pollutants. If your building has a painting, floor stripping, or waxing project, why not schedule it on a Friday evening, and give the indoor air a full weekend to recover?
5. Clean the air. There are ways to filter particles and gases out of the air as it passes through ventilation equipment. An HVAC technician can help design a system to fit your particular needs.
6. Educate about Indoor Air Quality. Teach your employees about the importance of indoor air quality and some basic steps that they can take to improve it.
Both business owners and their employees make decisions that directly affect their indoor air quality. It’s up to each business to provide proper education about the importance of good, clean air.
Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).For more information about Indoor Air Quality and other HVAC topics,click here to visit our website.
However, diagnosing an indoor air quality problem can be tricky. It isn’t always obvious, and health symptoms are very similar to those of a cold or the flu. Here are some clues that your problem may be more than the common cold.
■Everyone gets sick at the same time.
■Everyone feels better as soon as they leave the premises.
■The onset of the symptoms comes suddenly after a change, like freshly painted walls.
■People feel better outdoors.
■A doctor has identified the symptoms of an indoor air quality-related illness.
If indoor air quality becomes an issue, what can be done? Let’s discuss six practical, low-cost measures that business owners can take to improve the quality of indoor air in their buildings.
1. Eliminate the source. Mold, school bus exhaust, garbage—all of these can be sources of indoor air quality problems. Small things like replacing moldy material, prohibiting cars and work vehicles from idling in or around garages and buildings, and keeping garbage out of rooms with HVAC equipment can do a lot to minimize air pollutants.
2. Exhaust at the source. The source of a pollutant cannot always be eliminated. Installing exhaust systems in employee lounges and kitchens, duplicating rooms, restrooms, and industrial areas can remove pollutants before they spread throughout the building.
3. Ventilate the air. You really need to replace polluted air with cleaner, conditioned outdoor air.
4. Control the exposure. This involves changing either the time or location of exposure to pollutants. If your building has a painting, floor stripping, or waxing project, why not schedule it on a Friday evening, and give the indoor air a full weekend to recover?
5. Clean the air. There are ways to filter particles and gases out of the air as it passes through ventilation equipment. An HVAC technician can help design a system to fit your particular needs.
6. Educate about Indoor Air Quality. Teach your employees about the importance of indoor air quality and some basic steps that they can take to improve it.
Both business owners and their employees make decisions that directly affect their indoor air quality. It’s up to each business to provide proper education about the importance of good, clean air.
Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).For more information about Indoor Air Quality and other HVAC topics,click here to visit our website.
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Tightly Sealed Homes Need Proper Ventilation
When it comes to insulating your home, you can have too much of a good thing. A tight house often lacks proper ventilation, which is necessary in order to keep mold, mildew, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other contaminants from building up. Ventilation also helps prevent moisture build-up that can cause structural damage.
Good air flow is important for a healthy home. So, the general rule of thumb for insulating is that you should do what you can to seal up your home, then mechanically ventilate your indoor air. This creates cleaner, healthier air inside your home, reduces air leaks and keeps moisture from rotting your wood and damaging insulation. Some air leakage is likely in any home, especially older ones. However, if you have good ventilation that removes indoor air pollution and brings fresh outside air in, you should see an improvement in your home comfort as well as the quality of the air you breathe.
Whatever the status of air leakage in your home, mechanical ventilation systems can play a significant role in promoting air flow and reducing odor and moisture in your home. One way to achieve better ventilation is to install fans that remove moist air. Every home should have both kitchen and bathroom fans to effectively remove moisture and odors. In fact, the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineering (ASHRAE) recommends that kitchens have an intermittent exhaust capacity of 100 cfm (cubic feet per minute), and bathrooms 50 cfm.
ASHRAE also recommends a minimum ventilation rate of 15 cfm per person (or .35 air changes per hour), whichever is greater. That means introducing fresh or filtered air equal to just under one‐third of the total volume of air in your home every 60 minutes or more than 8 complete air exchanges per day. To put this rate of exchange into perspective, an older home without insulation or weather‐stripping might have as many as 8 air exchanges per hour. During the heating or cooling season, that adds up to a lot of energy consumption, and a lot of wasted energy dollars.
So, if your home is showing signs of ventilation problems such as high energy bills, moisture build up, condensation on the windows, mold, mildew and other unpleasant effects of poor air quality, have us come out to assess the situation. This is also a good time to talk about how to improve air quality through various mechanical means, such as dehumidifiers and air cleaners that work with your air conditioning to provide clean, cool and dry air year round.
Overinsulating has become an issue, especially with newer homes that are built to more energy-efficient standards. Mechanical ventilation helps keep your indoor air healthy and prevents costly repairs to your home down the line. Ask us about your options for sealing and ventilating your home to achieve better comfort.
Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).For more information about Ventilation and other HVAC topics,click here to visit our website.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Make Sure your System is Installed Correctly
Over half of the HVAC systems in the U.S. are not properly installed. As a result, they aren’t performing to their rated efficiency, and are more likely to suffer from breakdowns and costly repairs down the line. When it comes to getting the most comfort and energy savings out of your system, a quality installation is key. So, homeowners need to know what distinguishes a professional job from one that’s going to cause future problems. When it comes to installation, there are many points to look at, including:
* Proper sizing- Bigger is not better when it comes to your heating and cooling system. A system that’s sized too large will cycle on and off too much, leading to poor performance, early equipment failure and less comfort. Your contractor should do a load calculation to determine what size components are right for your home.
* Duct sealing- About 20% of your conditioned air is lost to leaky ducts. During installation, ducts should be properly sealed with tape or mastic, and all kinks should be eliminated for proper air flow.
Refrigerant charge- Over 60% of air conditioning systems are incorrectly charged at the time of installation. This leads to reduced life for system components and poor performance.
* Air flow- Your contractor should test for proper air flow through your system. Too much or too little air flow could result in higher energy bills as your system has to work harder to keep your rooms comfortable.
It’s also a good idea to have a checklist of important points for your contractor to cover during the installation:
1.Equipment has adequate space around it for maintenance.
2.Proper air flow is tested and verified.
3.Programmable thermostat is set and tested, and instructions for use are provided.
4.Instructions for changing filters are provided.
5.Furnace or boiler is tested for proper venting and burner operation.
6.Refrigerant levels in A/C units are checked and at the proper level.
7.Outside condenser unit is placed in a protected area.
8.Certificate for energy tax credit is provided, if applicable.
The Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) has a Quality Installation Specification available online that contains important guidelines for homeowners and contractors, so check it out for more details. A professional, quality installation job gives you years of comfort and energy efficiency, so make sure your contractor does it right the first time.
* Proper sizing- Bigger is not better when it comes to your heating and cooling system. A system that’s sized too large will cycle on and off too much, leading to poor performance, early equipment failure and less comfort. Your contractor should do a load calculation to determine what size components are right for your home.
* Duct sealing- About 20% of your conditioned air is lost to leaky ducts. During installation, ducts should be properly sealed with tape or mastic, and all kinks should be eliminated for proper air flow.
Refrigerant charge- Over 60% of air conditioning systems are incorrectly charged at the time of installation. This leads to reduced life for system components and poor performance.
* Air flow- Your contractor should test for proper air flow through your system. Too much or too little air flow could result in higher energy bills as your system has to work harder to keep your rooms comfortable.
It’s also a good idea to have a checklist of important points for your contractor to cover during the installation:
1.Equipment has adequate space around it for maintenance.
2.Proper air flow is tested and verified.
3.Programmable thermostat is set and tested, and instructions for use are provided.
4.Instructions for changing filters are provided.
5.Furnace or boiler is tested for proper venting and burner operation.
6.Refrigerant levels in A/C units are checked and at the proper level.
7.Outside condenser unit is placed in a protected area.
8.Certificate for energy tax credit is provided, if applicable.
The Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) has a Quality Installation Specification available online that contains important guidelines for homeowners and contractors, so check it out for more details. A professional, quality installation job gives you years of comfort and energy efficiency, so make sure your contractor does it right the first time.
Replacing your Existing Heat Pump
We’ve outlined some of the factors involved in replacing your old HVAC system. The first one to consider is this– when choosing a new system, there are certain limitations imposed by your existing system. To many people, it would seem that the obvious solution to replacement is to swap out your old heat pump with a newer model of the same type. Before you replace your heat pump, however, you need to determine if the current heat pump is sized correctly, and if the ductwork is also the right size for the new unit. Your ducts may be undersized (at least half of all systems are), or it may not be able to evenly heat and cool your home.
So, if your system is starting to perform poorly, and you think it might be time for a change, contact a qualified HVAC contractor. We inspect a lot of systems, and sometimes, we end up recommending a heat pump replacement. Here are some signs that your system may be at the end of its useful life:
1. Age: While age isn’t necessarily a reason to replace, a system that’s ten or fifteen years old is probably not operating very efficiently any more. The efficiency of your current system can be measured. The most common measurement used for heat pump efficiency ratings is the Coefficient of Performance, or COP. This refers to the ratio of the heat pump’s BTU heat output to the BTU electrical input. A water or ground source heat pump has a rating of three to five. An air source heat pump usually has a COP rating of two to four. When the outside temperature drops, the COP of air source heat pumps decreases.
Another method of determining heat pump efficiency is the Energy Efficiency Ratio or EER. This evaluates the efficiency during the cooling cycle of the particular unit. This rating is also used for air conditioners. If the EER rating is higher than ten, then it’s operating efficiently.
2. Uneven heating- If you find that there is unequal heating or cooling in the rooms of your house, then you should check your heat pump unit for certain problems. These problems could be due to improper installation, trouble with the ducts or, worse, your equipment is no longer functioning well. In this scenario, it’s likely that you’ll have to replace your old model.
3. Increased operating costs- Consider how much it costs to operate your current system. If your energy bills and the expenses spent on repairs and parts are increasing each year, replacement is probably in order. These expenses will continue to climb each year you own your old heat pump and, to add insult to injury, your system performance is likely to deteriorate.
4. Noise- If you start noticing that your system is becoming noisy, it could be a sign that parts are wearing out. Before additional damage is done, have a qualified HVAC contractor come check it out.
Contact us when you think it might be time to replace your heat pump. We can help you determine if your entire system needs replaced, and weigh your options. There are many considerations when replacing your current system, so we want to make sure that the benefits outweigh the costs involved.
Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).For more information about Heat Pump Systems and other HVAC topics,click here to visit our website.
Saturday, June 12, 2010
What Can A Whole House Dehumidifier Do For You?
We’ve talked a little bit about how to stay cool and comfortable in hot, humid conditions. Here at Conditioned Air, we believe that dehumidifying your indoor air is one of the most effective ways to improve your comfort all year long, keep indoor air healthy and save money on air conditioning costs. Whole house dehumidifiers can be used to supplement your air conditioner’s air drying capability. If you think you might need one, there are a few things you should know.
How they work
Whole house dehumidifiers connect to your existing heating and cooling system. They pull hot, humid air from your indoor spaces into return ducts, remove the moisture and refrigerate it, then return dry air back into your home. These units work well in conjunction with your air conditioner to balance the humidity levels in your home. They can also be used to provide fresh, dehumidified air on days when your A/C system is turned off or not needed.
Ventilating dehumidifiers provide an exchange of stale, humid indoor air for fresh, outdoor air. These units refrigerate and dehumidify outside air then introduce it into the home. By ventilating your home, these dehumidifiers help keep pollutants such as VOCs ( volatile organic compounds) and pollen from accumulating while providing dry air for increased comfort during times when the A/C needs a little help.
Choosing your dehumidifier
Just like any piece of HVAC equipment, your whole house dehumidifier needs to be sized for your home. This is calculated based on the size of the home, the number of rooms and the airflow of the unit. Proper sizing allows the unit to work at maximum efficiency and meet ventilation requirements.
Your technician can help you determine if you need a ventilating unit. An advantage to these types of dehumidifiers is their ability to provide fresh, treated air all year, regardless of weather conditions. This kind of mechanical ventilation is an energy efficient way to supplement your A/C’s dehumidification.
What can a whole house dehumidifier do for you? It’s a quiet, efficient way to improve your indoor air quality by keeping your home cool, dry and free from pollutants all year, in any conditions. Using one to supplement your air conditioning will ensure that hot, humid Florida weather doesn’t affect your indoor comfort.
Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).For more information about whole house dehumidifiers and other HVAC topics,click here to visit our website.
Replacing your Existing Heat Pump
We’ve outlined some of the factors involved in replacing your old HVAC system. The first one to consider is this– when choosing a new system, there are certain limitations imposed by your existing system. To many people, it would seem that the obvious solution to replacement is to swap out your old heat pump with a newer model of the same type. Before you replace your heat pump, however, you need to determine if the current heat pump is sized correctly, and if the ductwork is also the right size for the new unit. Your ducts may be undersized (at least half of all systems are), or it may not be able to evenly heat and cool your home.
So, if your system is starting to perform poorly, and you think it might be time for a change, contact a qualified HVAC contractor. We inspect a lot of systems, and sometimes, we end up recommending a heat pump replacement. Here are some signs that your system may be at the end of its useful life:
1. Age: While age isn’t necessarily a reason to replace, a system that’s ten or fifteen years old is probably not operating very efficiently any more. The efficiency of your current system can be measured. The most common measurement used for heat pump efficiency ratings is the Coefficient of Performance, or COP. This refers to the ratio of the heat pump’s BTU heat output to the BTU electrical input. A water or ground source heat pump has a rating of three to five. An air source heat pump usually has a COP rating of two to four. When the outside temperature drops, the COP of air source heat pumps decreases.
Another method of determining heat pump efficiency is the Energy Efficiency Ratio or EER. This evaluates the efficiency during the cooling cycle of the particular unit. This rating is also used for air conditioners. If the EER rating is higher than ten, then it’s operating efficiently.
2. Uneven heating- If you find that there is unequal heating or cooling in the rooms of your house, then you should check your heat pump unit for certain problems. These problems could be due to improper installation, trouble with the ducts or, worse, your equipment is no longer functioning well. In this scenario, it’s likely that you’ll have to replace your old model.
3. Increased operating costs- Consider how much it costs to operate your current system. If your energy bills and the expenses spent on repairs and parts are increasing each year, replacement is probably in order. These expenses will continue to climb each year you own your old heat pump and, to add insult to injury, your system performance is likely to deteriorate.
4. Noise- If you start noticing that your system is becoming noisy, it could be a sign that parts are wearing out. Before additional damage is done, have a qualified HVAC contractor come check it out.
Contact us when you think it might be time to replace your heat pump. We can help you determine if your entire system needs replaced, and weigh your options. There are many considerations when replacing your current system, so we want to make sure that the benefits outweigh the costs involved.
Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).For more information about Heat Pump Systems and other HVAC topics,click here to visit our website.
Thursday, June 10, 2010
How an Energy Efficient Landscape Can Save You Money
Here’s something you may not know– if you want to reduce your energy bills, one of the most effective ways to do it is through your landscaping. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that the proper placement of just 3 trees will save the average homeowner up to 25% per year in energy costs. When you implement an energy-efficient landscape design, you can help your cooling system work more efficiently by preventing the weather from affecting its performance. If you want to take advantage of potentially significant savings on your energy costs, we have some tips for you.
The first thing to consider when installing an energy efficient landscape is your climate zone. Here in Northeast Florida, we live in a hot-humid zone, which requires a landscaping plan aimed at keeping your home cool naturally. Anyone who has spent time in a park or wooded area can tell you that the temperature in these places is noticeably cooler than in areas without shade or covered with asphalt. Your landscaping can do the same thing for your home.
Here are the main elements of energy-efficient landscape design:
Shade- The area around trees is cooler for a reason. Trees not only provide shade from the sun, they also move and release water vapor in a process called evapotranspiration. Shading your yard with climate-appropriate trees can lower the air temperature around your home by 9 degrees. Energy efficient placement of your trees channels breezes toward your home in summer and maximizes shade during the hottest summer days. Pay attention to where shadows fall during certain times of day to determine where your trees should be planted, and be sure ask us about how to get the greatest energy savings by adding shade to your outdoor spaces.
Remember, it’s a good idea to plant trees or shrubs around your outdoor A/C unit. Providing shade for your air conditioner can save you as much as 10% on its operating costs. Just allow two to three feet around the condenser for air flow.
Wind Control- Unlike some areas of the country where windbreaks are desirable, here in Florida good ventilation is necessary in order to keep the home cool and reduce humidity. So, you may want to encourage wind movement in your yard. Smart wind control can help keep your air conditioning from working harder than necessary, so consider including this element when designing your landscape.
An energy efficient landscape pays for itself in energy savings within about 8 years, and can reduce air conditioning costs by 15-50% depending on other factors. So if you’re looking for ways to save money on energy costs, don’t neglect this important element of home comfort.
Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).For more information about filtration and filters and other HVAC topics,click here to visit our website.
Are Your Air Ducts Costing You Money?
As a Florida homeowner, you know how much you rely on your A/C unit and heat pump. You need them to keep you comfortable all year long, even in extreme heat or cold. But, is your forced-air system working too hard for your comfort? One way to tell is to inspect your ductwork. Leaky air ducts could be causing a lot of issues in your home, and worse yet, they could be costing you money. Ductwork that’s improperly sealed or torn allows about 20% of the air going through it to escape. As a result, your system has to work harder and use more fuel to keep you comfortable. Which leads to- you guessed it- higher energy bills. It also shortens the life span of your heating and cooling equipment.
There are several clues that indicate improperly sealed ducts:
*Energy bills that seem too high
*Areas that are hard to heat or cool
*Stuffy or dusty rooms
*Tangled or kinked ducts
*Uninsulated ducts in the garage or attic
Do any of these issues sound familiar? If so, you need to check your ducts and make sure they’re performing well. We do a lot of ductwork inspection and repair, and we know how important it is that they’re in good shape. So, make sure maintenance includes the following steps:
1. Do a thorough inspection of all ducts. Don’t forget ductwork in the attic and garage.
2. Use mastic, metal tape or an approved sealant to seal up any leaks or poor connections. Duct tape is not recommended as it’s not durable for this application.
3. Seal ductwork to all registers and air returns.
4. Insulate around ducts in the garage and attic with R-6 insulation.
Keeping your home comfortable requires ducts that are clean, free from obstructions and sealed properly. Taking these steps will improve your home’s energy efficiency, keep indoor air clean and save you up to 20% off your energy bill. It doesn’t take much time or effort to keep your ducts in good working order and the payoff could be big, so do yourself and your system a favor– keep your ducts happy with regular inspections.
Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).For more information about filtration and filters and other HVAC topics,click here to visit our website.
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
How Does Humidity Affect You and Your Home
When the air inside your home is either too moist or too dry, you feel it. Moist air feels clammy and sticky, and dry air leaves you reaching for hydration. So, your level of comfort is affected by humidity. However, you aren’t the only one affected by the levels of humidity in your home. Too much or too little humidity can cause a host of structural and indoor air quality issues, as well. That’s why it’s important to control the level of humidity within your home, and keep it within a desirable range.
Here in Florida, high humidity can be a problem, especially in the steamy summer months. High humidity levels produce fogged windows, musty odor and/or a clammy feel to the air. During cooler weather, condensation on inside windows is common. If the humidity in your home is too high, you’ll probably have more window condensation.
Humidity is defined as vaporized water in the air. The term used to define the amount of water vapor in the air is “relative humidity.” The human body is most comfortable when relative humidity is between 40% and 60%. In your home, an average relative humidity of 50% is ideal for Northeast Florida. During cooler weather, higher humidity ranges may cause structural damage because of condensation on windows and on the inside of exterior walls. As outdoor temperatures fall, condensation problems inside the home may develop.
The construction of a home also influences indoor humidity. Tightly constructed buildings retain more heat and moisture. This is where mechanical ventilation becomes important. If a home does not have the proper mechanical ventilation, excess water vapor can move through walls and ceilings, causing wet insulation, peeling paint, and mold on walls and woodwork.
During summer when outdoor humidity is high, your house and its furnishings naturally absorb some water vapor. In fall, when temperatures drop and the air becomes drier, this water vapor is released into the living space and condensation on windows may occur.
To avoid the problems caused by high humidity, we usually recommend an A/C checkup, and possibly a whole-house dehumidifier. It operates in tandem with your central air conditioner to reduce mold and mildew, improve indoor air quality, extend the life of your A/C and help control your energy bills. Drier air provides greater comfort at higher temperatures, so homeowners can raise the setting on their central air conditioners, reducing their energy use.
Ask us about ways that you can keep humidity at optimum levels in your home. It’s one of the best ways to improve your comfort, keep your indoor air healthy, extend the life of your HVAC equipment and maintain your home’s structural integrity.
Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).For more information about filtration and filters and other HVAC topics,click here to visit our website.
Get the Facts about your HVAC Filters
You may not think much about it, but your home is a breeding ground for mold, mildew and contaminants of all kinds. And, one of the places these health hazards like to grow is inside your heating and cooling systems. Ductwork, coils and other components can capture dirt, dust and pollen, and spread them around your home through your forced air system. This creates unhealthy conditions for both the occupants and the system itself.
This is why your filters are so important to your indoor air quality and your system. Filters capture harmful particulates so that they can’t escape into your indoor air. They also help extend the life of your HVAC equipment by preventing dirt and debris from clogging up system components. Properly installed filters that are correct for your system will help keep the air inside your home clean and keep your system operating efficiently.
There are four main types of filters. The best way to determine which ones are best for you is to have us come out and do an air flow measurement on your system. This is important because the wrong filters can restrict air flow and cause a pressure drop that damages your HVAC equipment. We can recommend the correct filters for your needs.
The different types of filters are designed to handle different kinds of particulates:
1. Low efficiency- These filters are made to capture particles that are 50 microns or larger. Examples would be dust and larger-size pollens. Since they can’t handle very small particles and contaminants, they are generally used to protect fans, coils and ducts from dust and dirt buildup. They also can be installed as pre-filters to keep large particles of dust from reaching higher efficiency filters.
2. Medium efficiency- Medium efficiency filters capture up to 95% of particles that are 5 microns or larger, which includes small pollens and large bacteria. Most commercial building filters are in this group. These filters are usually pleated and pocket filters, which have a larger filtering surface than one that is flat facing the air stream. This provides more filtering capability for your system.
3. High efficiency- High efficiency filters capture almost 100% of particulates that are 0.3 microns or larger. These are smaller particulates that lower efficiency filters can’t handle. Examples are bacteria, about 50% of the viruses, and most fumes. These are often called electronic air cleaners, and are available for residential systems.
4. Very high efficiency- Most likely, your residential HVAC System will not have these filters. They are mostly used for areas that require sterile indoor air, such as hospital operating rooms and laboratories. HEPA filters are an example of very high efficiency filters. These filters can eliminate almost 100% of particulates from the air. Residential equipment is not designed to work directly with these filters.
When looking at filters, you should be aware that all HVAC filters are rated based on their minimum efficiency, or MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value). This rating was established by ASHRAE to help homeowners and contractors install the correct filters for their application. The higher the rating number, the more efficient the filter is. We can help you get the filters that are rated for your system, so ask us about MERV ratings and what they mean to you.
Keeping your filters clean, and replacing them when necessary, can make a big difference in the quality of your indoor air. Just as importantly, regular filter maintenance will keep your system components working for a lot longer. That’s why we check, clean, or replace our customers’ filters every time we do scheduled maintenance. Don’t let dirty filters reduce your system’s efficiency, and don’t risk health problems that come along with dirty indoor air. These issues are easily prevented with a little bit of preventative maintenance.
Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).For more information about filtration and filters and other HVAC topics,click here to visit our website.
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Is it Time for an HVAC Equipment Upgrade? Here’s what you Need to Know
If your heating and cooling system is more than 10 years old, you may be thinking about buying a new one. Unlike other appliances in your home, purchasing an HVAC system is not a matter of picking one out, plugging it in and moving on. Your system is made up of parts that work together to keep you comfortable every day, and they need to work well for your particular situation. So, you should make sure that your new system is right for your climate, your home and your comfort needs.
How do you make an informed decision when purchasing an HVAC system? There are several factors to consider, and we can’t cover everything in one post, but let’s take a look at the 3 main points:
1. Your old system- You can replace your air conditioning unit with a new model, but first make sure that your existing ductwork can handle it. If your home has been remodeled or had additions put on, the ductwork needs to be able to handle a bigger unit, and air distribution looked at for maximum comfort throughout the home. For heating, the issues are the same. What are the limitations imposed by your current system? For example, if you want to switch to a high efficiency heat pump system you should have a contractor check the size of your ducts. Your current ductwork may not be large enough. There can be significant costs involved with upgrading to a new system; however, if you’re getting higher efficiency you should recoup those costs over time.
2. Fuel availability and cost- Your system should be designed to take advantage of the most efficient fuel or energy source available. Homes in Northeast Florida, for example, usually use electricity to run heat pumps because it’s efficient and clean, and relatively inexpensive
3. Size- An improperly sized system will cost you more money to run, perform poorly and possibly create health hazards such as moisture build-up in your home. Recent studies estimate that over half of all new systems installed in the U.S. are not sized properly, and most of those are oversized. An oversized heating and cooling system costs more to install, won’t run long enough to dehumidify the air and is more likely to break down. One of the things we do to avoid this is to use a specific calculation called Manual J heat load to determine what size system is right for each home.
There’s a lot more to cover when it comes to choosing a new heating and cooling system for your Northeast Florida home. In future posts we’ll talk more about these points. The important thing to remember is that if you’re looking at a new HVAC system, you need to do your homework before you make a purchase. Go to our website for more information and links to equipment manufacturers and their products. We encourage homeowners to become educated and to work with us, so they can get the most comfort and efficiency from their new systems.
Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about upgrading your equipment and other HVAC topics, click here to visit our website.
Action Heating and Air Conditioning services Northeast Florida (St. John’s County) to get started,check out our website or see our special offers.
Saturday, June 5, 2010
Energy Strategy for the Future
The Energy Picture: Where Are We Now? Where Are We Headed?
EPA’s experience, through its interactions with U.S. companies, is that many are initiating energy programs. For companies operating formal energy programs, these programs are typically less than 5 years old. And, the involvement of senior executives in energy planning and decisionmaking is just beginning.
Market trends suggest that the demand for energy resources will rise dramatically over the next 25 years:
*Global demand for all energy sources is forecast to grow by 57% over the next 25 years.
*U.S. demand for all types of energy is expected to increase by 31% within 25 years.
*By 2030, 56% of the world’s energy use will be in Asia.
*Electricity demand in the U.S. will grow by at least 40% by 2032.
*New power generation equal to nearly 300 (1,000MW) power plants will be needed to meet electricity demand by 2030.
*Currently, 50% of U.S. electrical generation relies on coal, a fossil fuel; while 85% of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions result from energy-consuming activities supported by fossil fuels.
Sources: Annual Energy Outlook (DOE/EIA-0383(2007)), International Energy Outlook 2007 (DOE/EIA-0484(2007), Inventory of U.S. Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Sinks: 1990-2005 (April 2007) (EPA 430-R-07-002)
If energy prices also rise dramatically due to increased demand and constrained supply, business impacts could include:
*Reduced profits due to high operating costs.
*Decline of sales of energy-using products.
*Loss of competitiveness in energy intensive businesses.
*Disruptions in supply chains as suppliers are unable to meet cost obligations or go bankrupt.
Recent history also demonstrates that catastrophic weather events, terrorism, and shifting economic centers are not just events of our imagination but realities of our lifetime.
Given this challenging landscape, what steps do U.S. businesses need to take today to survive a potentially disruptive energy future?
Thursday, June 3, 2010
10 Tips for Hiring a Heating and Cooling Contractor
1. Study up — Find out about license and insurance requirements for contractors in your state. And before you call a contractor, know the model of your current system and its maintenance history. Also make note of any uncomfortable rooms. This will help potential contractors better understand your heating needs.
2. Ask for referrals — Ask friends, neighbors, and co-workers for contractor referrals. You can also contact local trade organizations for names of members in your area.
3. Call references — Ask contractors for customer references and call them. Ask about the contractor's installation or service performance, and if the job was completed on time and within budget.
4. Find special offers — A heating and cooling system is one of the largest purchases you'll make as a homeowner. Keep your costs down by checking around for available rebates on energy-efficient ENERGY STAR qualified heating and cooling equipment. Begin your search at www.energystar.gov.
5. Look for ENERGY STAR — ENERGY STAR qualified products meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and offer significant long-term energy savings. Contractors should be able to show you calculations of savings for ENERGY STAR heating and cooling equipment.
6. Expect a home evaluation — The contractor should spend significant time inspecting your current system and home to assess your needs. A bigger system isn't always better; a contractor should size the heating and cooling system based on the size of your house, level of insulation, and windows. A good contractor will inspect your duct system (if applicable) for air leaks and insulation and measure airflow to make sure it meets manufacturers specifications.
7. Get written, itemized estimates — When comparing contractors' proposals (bids), be sure to compare cost, energy efficiency and warranties. A lowest price may not be the best deal if it's not the most efficient because your energy costs will be higher.
8. Get it in ink — Sign a written proposal with a contractor before work gets started. It'll protect you by specifying project costs, model numbers, job schedule and warranty information.
9. Pass it on — Tell friends and family about ENERGY STAR. Almost one-quarter of households knowingly purchased at least one qualified product last year, and 71% of those consumers say they would recommend ENERGY STAR to a friend. Spread the word, and we can all make a big difference.
10. Get the ENERGY STAR Guide — For complete information on keeping your home comfortable year-round, get the ENERGY STAR Guide to Energy Efficient Cooling and Heating or 1-888-STAR-YES (1-888-782-7937).
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Ask about Proper Installation of your new equipment
Replacing your old heating and cooling equipment with new, energy-efficient models is a great start. But to make sure that you get the best performance, the new equipment must be properly installed. In fact, improper installation can reduce system efficiency by up to 30 percent — costing you more on your utility bills and possibly shortening the equipment's life.
Monday, May 31, 2010
HVAC Tax Credits (2009 Stimulus)
February 16, 2009, President Obama signed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) into law. This Act increased tax credits available to homeowners who make qualified energy efficient improvements to their existing primary residences. If you are a homeowner and are thinking about installing new HVAC equipment, you should consider the benefits qualifying equipment would provide at tax time. Not only can these credits lower your tax liability, they can also reduce your energy costs by up to 40% and provide for a cleaner environment.
Homeowners who install qualified furnaces, boilers, heat pumps, central air conditioners, and hot water heaters in 2009 or 2010 may qualify for a tax credit equal to 30% of the installed costs, up to $1500.
A list of equipment that qualifies can be found here. Since manufacturers are always changing their product lines,
please contact us to check on qualifying equipment.
Advancements in HVAC technology, energy efficiency, and performance in the last ten years means that the equipment you buy today can pay for itself in just a few years.
Qualifying Equipment for Tax Credits
Credits Limited to 30% of Installed Cost (up to $1,500) in the tax years 2009-2010.
EQUIPMENT Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard to Qualify for Tax Credit
Central Air Conditioners Split System Packaged System
16 SEER 14 SEER
13 EER 12 EER
Electric Air Source Heat Pumps Split Heat Pumps Packaged Heat Pumps
15 SEER 14 SEER
12.5 EER 12 EER
8.5 HSPF 8 HSPF
Sunday, May 30, 2010
Always be Polite
Mr. Thomas V. Callahan:
Dear Sir,
Recently, I had a new "Luxaire" central air conditioning system installed in my home by your company. I would like to take this opportunity to report on this event.
On June 28th, 2008, I telephoned your company and spoke with your customer service representative, Jeff Wilder, regarding air conditioning systems. Jeff quickly responded to my home and upon inspection of my old air conditioning system, explained my options regarding a new system. His presentation was both interesting and extremely informative. His demeanor was both friendly and professional and his technical knowledge was apparent. I agreed to have the new system installed.
On the next business day the installers arrived promptly and replaced my old system. Thanks to Shawn and his helper Steve, the new air conditioning system, after some adjustments, is working superbly. I have nothing but praise for all of the aforementioned personnel and their commitment to customer satisfaction.
I have and will recommend Action Heating and Air Conditioning for home heating and cooling needs! Thank you so much.
Saturday, May 29, 2010
Why should I replace my existing heating or air-conditioning system?
You may wish to consider replacing your air-conditioning or heating system if it is old, inefficient, or in need of repair. Today's systems are as much as 60% more efficient than those systems manufactured as little as ten years ago. In addition, if not properly maintained, wear and tear on a system can reduce the actual or realized efficiency of the system. If you are concerned about utility bills or are faced with an expensive repair, you may want to consider replacing your system rather than enduring another costly season or paying to replace an expensive component. The utility cost savings of a new unit may provide an attractive return on your investment. If you plan on financing the purchase, the monthly savings on your utility bill should be considered when determining the actual monthly cost of replacing a system. The offsetting savings may permit you to purchase a more efficient system.
Friday, May 28, 2010
Air-Source Heat Pumps
Air-Source Heat Pumps
An air-source heat pump can provide efficient heating and cooling for your home, especially if you live in a warm climate. When properly installed, an air-source heat pump can deliver one-and-a-half to three times more heat energy to a home than the electrical energy it consumes. This is possible because a heat pump moves heat rather than converting it from a fuel, like in combustion heating systems.
Although air-source heat pumps can be used in nearly all parts of the United States, they do not generally perform well over extended periods of sub-freezing temperatures. In regions with sub-freezing winter temperatures, it may not be cost effective to meet all your heating needs with a standard air-source heat pump.
However, new systems with gas heating as a backup are able to overcome this problem. There is also a "Cold Climate Heat Pump" which shows promise, but is currently facing manufacturing problems. In addition, a version called the "Reverse Cycle Chiller" claims to be able to operate efficiently at below-freezing temperatures.
How They Work
A heat pump's refrigeration system consists of a compressor and two coils made of copper tubing (one indoors and one outside), which are surrounded by aluminum fins to aid heat transfer. In the heating mode, liquid refrigerant in the outside coils extracts heat from the air and evaporates into a gas. The indoor coils release heat from the refrigerant as it condenses back into a liquid. A reversing valve, near the compressor, can change the direction of the refrigerant flow for cooling as well as for defrosting the outdoor coils in winter.
When outdoor temperatures fall below 40°F, a less-efficient panel of electric resistance coils, similar to those in your toaster, kicks in to provide indoor heating. This is why air-source heat pumps aren't always very efficient for heating in areas with cold winters. Some units now have gas-fired backup furnaces instead of electric resistance coils, allowing them to operate more efficiently.
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Weatherization Assistance Program
The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) enables low-income families to permanently reduce their energy bills by making their homes more energy efficient. Funds are used to improve the energy performance of dwellings of needy families using the most advanced technologies and testing protocols available in the housing industry. The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) provides funding to states, U.S. overseas territories, and Indian tribal governments, which manage the day-to-day details of the program. These governments, in turn, fund a network of local community action agencies, nonprofit organizations, and local governments that provide these weatherization services in every state, the District of Columbia, U.S. territories, and among Native American tribes.
The energy conservation resulting from these efforts of state and local agencies helps our country reduce its dependence on foreign oil and decrease the cost of energy for families in need while improving the health and safety of their homes. During the past 33 years, WAP has provided weatherization services to more than 6.4 million low-income households. Families receiving weatherization services see their annual energy bills reduced by an average of about $350, depending on fuel prices. Because the energy improvements that make up weatherization services are long lived, the savings add up over time to substantial benefits for weatherization clients and their communities, and the nation as a whole.
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Exploring Ways to Use Solar Energy
Exploring Ways to Use Solar Energy
Step outside on a hot, sunny day, and you'll experience the power of the sun's heat and the light. That's solar energy.
You can use solar energy to do the following:
•Heat your home through passive solar design or an active solar heating system
•Generate your own electricity
•Heat water in your home or swimming pool
•Light your home both indoors and outdoors
•Dry your clothes. Use a clothesline to reduce the energy consumed by your clothes dryer.
Passive Solar Home Design
Your home's windows, walls, and floors can be designed to collect, store, and distribute solar energy in the form of heat in the winter and reject solar heat in the summer. This is called passive solar design or climatic design. Unlike active solar heating systems, passive solar design doesn't involve the use of mechanical and electrical devices, such as pumps, fans, or electrical controls to move the solar heat.
Passive solar homes range from those heated almost entirely by the sun to those with south-facing windows that provide some fraction of the heating load. The difference between a passive solar home and a conventional home is design. The key is designing a passive solar home to best take advantage of your local climate. For more information, see how a passive solar home design works.
You can apply passive solar design techniques most easily when designing a new home. However, existing buildings can be adapted or "retrofitted" to passively collect and store solar heat.
To design a completely passive solar home, you need to incorporate what are considered the five elements of passive solar design. Other design elements include:
•Window location and glazing type
•Insulation and air sealing
•Auxiliary heating and cooling systems, if needed.
These design elements can be applied using one or more of the following passive solar design techniques:
•Direct gain
•Indirect gain (Trombe wall)
•Isolated gain (Sunspace).
Active Solar Heating
There are two basic types of active solar heating systems based on the type of fluid—either liquid or air—that is heated in the solar energy collectors. (The collector is the device in which a fluid is heated by the sun.) Liquid-based systems heat water or an antifreeze solution in a "hydronic" collector, whereas air-based systems heat air in an "air collector."
Both of these systems collect and absorb solar radiation, then transfer the solar heat directly to the interior space or to a storage system, from which the heat is distributed. If the system cannot provide adequate space heating, an auxiliary or back-up system provides the additional heat. Liquid systems are more often used when storage is included, and are well suited for radiant heating systems, boilers with hot water radiators, and even absorption heat pumps and coolers. Both air and liquid systems can supplement forced air systems. To learn more about these two types of active solar heating, see the following sections:
•Solar Air Heating
•Solar Liquid Heating
Economics and Other Benefits of Active Solar Heating Systems
Active solar heating systems are most cost-effective when they are used for most of the year, that is, in cold climates with good solar resources. They are most economical if they are displacing more expensive heating fuels, such as electricity, propane, and oil heat. Some states offer sales tax exemptions, income tax credits or deductions, and property tax exemptions or deductions for solar energy systems.
The cost of an active solar heating system will vary. Commercial systems range from $30 to $80 per square foot of collector area, installed. Usually, the larger the system, the less it costs per unit of collector area. Commercially available collectors come with warranties of 10 years or more, and should easily last decades longer. The economics of an active space heating system improve if it also heats domestic water, because an otherwise idle collector can heat water in the summer.
Heating your home with an active solar energy system can significantly reduce your fuel bills in the winter. A solar heating system will also reduce the amount of air pollution and greenhouse gases that result from your use of fossil fuels such as oil, propane, and natural gas for heating or that may be used to generate the electricity that you use.
Selecting and Sizing a Solar Heating System
Selecting the appropriate solar energy system depends on factors such as the site, design, and heating needs of your house. Local covenants may restrict your options; for example homeowner associations may not allow you to install solar collectors on certain parts of your house (although many homeowners have been successful in challenging such covenants).
The local climate, the type and efficiency of the collector(s), and the collector area determine how much heat a solar heating system can provide. It is usually most economical to design an active system to provide 40%–80% of the home's heating needs. Systems providing less than 40% of the heat needed for a home are rarely cost-effective except when using solar air heater collectors that heat one or two rooms and require no heat storage. A well-designed and insulated home that incorporates passive solar heating techniques will require a smaller and less costly heating system of any type, and may need very little supplemental heat other than solar.
Besides the fact that designing an active system to supply enough heat 100% of the time is generally not practical or cost effective, most building codes and mortgage lenders require a back-up heating system. Supplementary or back-up systems supply heat when the solar system can not meet heating requirements. They can range from a wood stove to a conventional central heating system.
Controls for Solar Heating Systems
Solar system controls.
Photo credit: Sandia National Labs.
Controls for solar heating systems are usually more complex than those of a conventional heating system, because they have to analyze more signals and control more devices (including the conventional, backup heating system). Solar controls use sensors, switches, and/or motors to operate the system. The system uses other controls to prevent freezing or extremely high temperatures in the collectors.
The heart of the control system is a differential thermostat, which measures the difference in temperature between the collectors and storage unit. When the collectors are 10°–20°F (5.6°–11°C) warmer than the storage unit, the thermostat turns on a pump or fan to circulate water or air through the collector to heat the storage medium or the house.
The operation, performance, and cost of these controls vary. Some control systems monitor the temperature in different parts of the system to help determine how it is operating. The most sophisticated systems use microprocessors to control and optimize heat transfer and delivery to storage and zones of the house.
It is possible to use a solar panel to power low voltage, direct current (DC) blowers (for air collectors) or pumps (for liquid collectors). The output of the solar panels matches available solar heat gain to the solar collector. With careful sizing, the blower or pump speed is optimized for efficient solar gain to the working fluid. During low sun conditions the blower or pump speed is slow, and during high solar gain, they run faster.
When used with a room air collector, separate controls may not be necessary. This also ensures that the system will operate in the event of utility power outage. A solar power system with battery storage can also provide power to operate a central heating system, though this is expensive for large systems.
Building Codes Covenants and Regulations for Solar Heating Systems
Before installing a solar energy system, you should investigate local building codes, zoning ordinances, and subdivision covenants, as well as any special regulations pertaining to the site. You will probably need a building permit to install a solar energy system onto an existing building.
Not every community or municipality initially welcomes residential renewable energy installations. Although this is often due to ignorance or the comparative novelty of renewable energy systems, you must comply with existing building and permit procedures to install your system.
The matter of building code and zoning compliance for a solar system installation is typically a local issue. Even if a statewide building code is in effect, it's usually enforced locally by your city, county, or parish. Common problems homeowners have encountered with building codes include the following:
•Exceeding roof load
•Unacceptable heat exchangers
•Improper wiring
•Unlawful tampering with potable water supplies.
Potential zoning issues include these:
•Obstructing sideyards
•Erecting unlawful protrusions on roofs
•Siting the system too close to streets or lot boundaries.
Special area regulations—such as local community, subdivision, or homeowner's association covenants—also demand compliance. These covenants, historic district regulations, and flood-plain provisions can easily be overlooked. To find out what's needed for local compliance, contact your local jurisdiction's zoning and building enforcement divisions and any appropriate homeowner's, subdivision, neighborhood, and/or community association(s).
Installing and Maintaining Your Solar Heating System
Periodic visual inspection may be necessary to properly maintain your solar system.
Photo credit: Robb Williamson.
How well an active solar energy system performs depends on effective siting, system design, and installation, and the quality and durability of the components. The collectors and controls now manufactured are of high quality. The biggest factor now is finding an experienced contractor who can properly design and install the system.
Once a system is in place, it has to be properly maintained to optimize its performance and avoid breakdowns. Different systems require different types of maintenance, but you should figure on 8–16 hours of maintenance annually. You should set up a calendar with a list of maintenance tasks that the component manufacturers and installer recommends.
Most solar water heaters are automatically covered under your homeowner's insurance policy. However, damage from freezing is generally not. Contact your insurance provider to find out what its policy is. Even if your provider will cover your system, it is best to inform them in writing that you own a new system.
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