Action from the Ground Up

Air Sealing Your Home

2012-02-14T09:48:00.004-08:00

Air leakage, or infiltration, occurs when outside air enters a house through cracks and openings. Properly air sealing such cracks and openings in your home can significantly reduce heating and cooling costs, improve building durability, and create a healthier indoor environment.
Many people think that air leakage is like natural ventilation, and therefore is a good thing. But, it’s unwise to rely on air leakage for ventilation, mainly because it can’t be controlled. During cool or windy weather, too much air may enter the house. When it’s warmer and less windy, not enough air may enter. Air infiltration also can contribute to problems with moisture control. Moldy and dusty air can enter a leaky house through such areas as attics or foundations.

We recommend a strategy that includes both reducing air leakage as much as possible, while providing controlled ventilation as needed. This goes for both new and old homes.

To reduce air leakage you’ll first need to find the leaks. For this, an energy audit, performed by a trained technician, can be a helpful tool. You can also check for leaks yourself. First, look at areas where different materials meet, such as between brick and wood siding, between foundation and walls, and between the chimney and siding. Also inspect around the following areas for any cracks and gaps that could cause air leaks:

■Door and window frames
■Vents and fans
■Outdoor water faucets
■Stucco or brick siding
■Foundation block
■Cable, TV and phone lines

Providing ventilation is the other part of the equation when it comes to sealing air leaks. Controlled ventilation, usually through mechanical means, is essential to keeping your home’s indoor air comfortable and healthy. Whole-house ventilation systems provide controlled, uniform ventilation throughout a house. These systems use one or more fans and duct systems to exhaust stale air and/or supply fresh air to the house.

Air sealing is a step that is often overlooked when homeowners are looking for ways to improve the comfort and energy-efficiency of their homes. Ask us about how to properly air seal your home to maximize energy savings and keep your indoor air healthy and climate-controlled.

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.

Control Dust In Your Home, Improve Indoor Air Quality

2012-02-12T05:25:00.000-08:00

Because air conditioners are used so frequently during the long cooling season in Northeast Florida, indoor air quality is a concern for many people. Air that is constantly recirculated throughout your home can carry unwanted particles such as pet dander and dust.

These particles can settle on surfaces and be inhaled by you and your family, causing potential health issues. One of the first steps to improving indoor air quality is to control dust in your home.

Regular cleaning is essential for controlling dust, but in some cases it is simply not enough to vacuum and change the bedding on a weekly basis. There are a number of ways you can control dust in your home with the help of indoor air quality solutions:

•Use an advanced air filter: Your furnace or air conditioner filter traps particles as air flows through. However, many standard filters do not trap smaller particles. Upgrading to a high-efficiency filter can reduce the amount of dust that is allowed to pass through, but they can also restrict airflow. Ask your contractor what type of filters are appropriate for your system.

•Install a whole-house air cleaner: Although portable air purifiers are effective for removing dust and other contaminants in individual rooms, they only impact a small area. A whole-house system is integrated into your ductwork to provide clean air to every room in your home.

•Control the humidity: Dust mites thrive in a humid environment. Although your air conditioner does have some impact on your indoor humidity level, installing a whole-house humidity control system is a much more effective way to control dust in your home. You will also enjoy improved home comfort.

If you want to control dust in your home, contact the indoor air quality experts at Action Heating and Air Conditioning. We’ll help you find and install the products that make the most sense for your family. Serving Northeast Florida, we’re always happy to help.

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.

Is It Time To Replace An HVAC System? 6 Tips To Help You Decide

2012-02-11T10:07:00.000-08:00

Much like buying a new car or upgrading a large appliance, you want to be sure you have received the most from your existing equipment before you make a major investment. However, if you wait too long, costly repairs and poor performance could end up being more expensive. The same is true when you decide to replace an HVAC system: you want to get the most from your existing equipment while avoiding breakdowns and discomfort.

Of course, nobody can predict the future, so this can sometimes be a difficult decision to make. Use these six tips to help you decide when to replace an HVAC system:

•Equipment age: If you have had your Air handler,furnace or Heat Pump for 15 years or longer, it is probably time to consider an upgrade. New models are much more efficient and replacing your equipment before it breaks can save you a lot of stress and discomfort.

•Increasing energy bills: Although fuel and electricity are getting more expensive, as your equipment ages it will become less efficient and cost more each month to operate. Your contractor can help you compare monthly usage to costs to help you determine whether your HVAC system is getting more expensive to run.

•Frequent repairs: If you have had any necessary repairs in the past two years it is a sign of equipment aging and may be time to replace an HVAC system.

•Strange noises: Any odd noises coming from your HVAC system should be examined by a professional. Another sign to watch for is excessive running of the blower fan.

•Home comfort: Do you achieve home comfort in every room in your home?

•Humidity levels: If you experience extreme humidity or dryness in your home, you may benefit from new equipment that has more advanced features.
If you are ready to replace an HVAC system in your home or business, call the trained professionals at Action Heating and Air Conditioning for expert installation and maintenance.

We’ll help you properly evaluate your cooling and heating needs so you can get the most from your new investment. Serving Northeast Florida, we’re always happy to help.

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.

Energy Performance Ratings for Windows, Doors and Skylights

2012-02-10T16:32:00.001-08:00

Energy Performance Ratings for windows, doors and skylights are designed to tell you their potential for gaining and losing heat, as well as how much sunlight they allow into your home. If you’re thinking about replacing these items, and want to install energy-efficient products, you should pay attention to these ratings.
Knowing how well your windows, doors and skylights perform is important. In a typical home, up to 30% of heating and cooling is lost through its windows and doors. To put that in perspective – the amount of energy lost through doors and windows in the U.S. every year is roughly equivalent to all the energy we get from the oil carried by the Alaska pipeline!

Windows, doors, skylights can gain and lose heat in the following ways:

■Direct conduction through the glass or glazing, frame, and/or door
■The radiation of heat into a house (typically from the sun) and out of a house from room-temperature objects, such as people, furniture, and interior walls
■Air leakage through and around them.
Energy Performance Ratings are determined by measuring the following energy performance characteristics:

■U-factor
The rate at which a window, door, or skylight conducts non-solar heat flow. For windows, skylights, and glass doors, a U-factor may refer to just the glass or glazing alone. But, National Fenestration Rating Council U-factor ratings represent the entire window performance, including frame and spacer material. The lower the U-factor, the more energy-efficient the window, door, or skylight.

■Solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC)
This is the fraction of solar radiation admitted through a window, door, or skylight—either transmitted directly and/or absorbed, and subsequently released as heat inside a home. The lower the SHGC, the less solar heat it transmits and the greater its shading ability. A product with a high SHGC rating is more effective at collecting solar heat gain during the winter.

A product with a low SHGC rating is also more effective at reducing how hard your A/C has to work during the summer, because it blocks heat gained from the sun. Therefore, what SHGC you need for a window, door, or skylight should be determined by such factors as your climate, orientation, and external shading.

■Air leakage
This is the rate of air infiltration around a window, door, or skylight in the presence of a specific pressure difference across it. It’s expressed in units of cubic feet per minute per square foot of frame area (cfm/ft2). A product with a low air leakage rating is tighter than one with a high air leakage rating.
Installing energy-efficient windows, doors and skylights can significantly lower your heating and cooling bills. Simply by choosing products with efficient Energy Performance Ratings, you’ll keep more of your hard-earned energy dollars in your pocket. And, you’ll gain greater comfort because your home will be better able to retain heat and cold. Next time, we’ll talk about daylighting, sunlight transmittance, and what it means for your energy bills.

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.

TWO STAGE COMPRESSORS

2012-02-10T03:32:00.000-08:00

A 2-stage compressor is one compressor with 2 stages. One compressor with a small compressor operates most of the time for maximum efficiency, handing off to the larger compressor when extra cooling is needed.

It is a compressor that can adjust to a lower stage when demand is low and high stage when the outdoor temps are more extreme.

It uses less energy when demand is low and adjusts to the higher stage only when the outdoor temps are extreme.

HVAC Motor Efficiency Can Directly Boost Energy Savings: Here’s How

2012-02-08T16:49:00.000-08:00

The efficiency of your motor can affect the amount of energy and money used to operate your HVAC system. Studies have shown that an efficient HVAC motor can save 20 percent or more on operating costs.

The motor proven to increase HVAC motor efficiency by the greatest amount is the ECM (electronically commutated motor) model.

An ECM is a modified DC motor that uses a built-in inverter and a magnet rotor to control energy use. A series of ball bearings gives the motor the ability to run at high speeds without the need for oiling. The motors do not overheat and do not waste energy on motor cooling like some other HVAC motors. The operator can control the motor by programming the desired speeds and run times to maximize energy savings. A well-programmed ECM offers significant savings for homeowners.

ECMs can increase the efficiency of a standard HVAC unit by 25 percent or more. Most HVAC motors have an efficiency between 12 and 45 percent. ECMs have an efficiency between 65 and 75 percent.

An HVAC technician can replace the motor in an existing furnace or air conditioning unit with an ECM. This simple procedure can result in large monetary savings for Florida homeowners in conjunction with other simple energy-saving methods.

For more information about how you can improve your HVAC motor efficiency, contact us at Action Heating and Air Conditioning. We provide Northeast Florida residents with expert HVAC service, repair and installation. We can install a new ECM into your air handler or air conditioning unit and provide many other HVAC maintenance services.

Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).For more information about your Indoor Comfort and other HVAC topics,click here to visit our website

CARBON MONOXIDE

2012-02-08T10:30:00.000-08:00

CARBON MONOXIDE - As quoted from the EPA, "Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless and toxic gas. Because it is impossible to see, taste or smell the toxic fumes, CO can kill you before you are aware it is in your home. At lower levels of exposure, CO causes mild effects that are often mistaken for the flu. These symptoms include headaches, dizziness, disorientation, nausea and fatigue. The effects of CO exposure can vary greatly from person to person depending on age, overall health and the concentration and length of exposure."

SOURCES OF CARBON MONOXIDE - There are many sources of Carbon Monoxide, but a few that homeowners should be aware of are: Unvented kerosene and gas space heaters; leaking chimneys and furnaces; back-drafting from furnaces, gas water heaters, wood stoves, and fireplaces; gas stoves; generators and other gasoline powered equipment; automobile exhaust from attached garages; and tobacco smoke. Incomplete oxidation during combustion in gas ranges and unvented gas or kerosene heaters may cause high concentrations of CO in indoor air. Worn or poorly adjusted and maintained combustion devices (e.g., boilers, furnaces) can be significant sources, or if the flue is improperly sized, blocked, disconnected, or is leaking. Auto, truck, or bus exhaust from attached garages, nearby roads, or parking areas can also be a source.

STEPS TO REDUCE CARBON MONOXIDE EXPOSURE -•Keep gas appliances properly adjusted.
•Consider purchasing a vented space heater when replacing an unvented one.
•Use proper fuel in kerosene space heaters.
•Install and use an exhaust fan vented to outdoors over gas stoves.
•Open flues when fireplaces are in use.
•Choose properly sized wood stoves that are certified to meet EPA emission standards. Make certain that doors on all wood stoves fit tightly.
•Have a trained professional inspect, clean, and tune-up central heating system (furnaces, flues, and chimneys) annually. Repair any leaks promptly.
•Do not idle the car inside garage.

Also, carbon monoxide detectors are available at various stores.

Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).For more information about your Indoor Comfort and other HVAC topics,click here to visit our website

A Variable-Speed Air Handler Gives You Precise Comfort Options

2012-02-07T17:15:00.000-08:00

Even on the hottest Florida summer day, it can be uncomfortable to feel an icy blast of cold air when your air conditioner kicks on. With a variable-speed air handler, you get a constant flow of heated or cooled air, so you have more precise comfort control all year long.

A variable-speed air handler provides consistent airflow at a low fan speed. When additional heated or cooled air is needed, the speed of the fan increases until the thermostat temperature is met. This type of home comfort technology provides many advantages to you and your family:

•Quiet operation: If you have ever been jolted awake by the sound of your heating and cooling system coming on, you know how noisy a conventional system can be. Constant operation at a low speed is almost unnoticeable, and when the higher fan speed is needed, it gradually increases without making sudden noises.

•Enhanced air quality: Because variable-speed air handlers constantly filter the air that flows through them, the air in your home is much cleaner than with a traditional blower motor. Constant air circulation also means fewer odors and unwanted contaminants, because stale, old air is regularly removed and replaced with air that has just been through the air filter.

•Better energy efficiency: The electricity consumption of a variable-speed air handler is significantly less than a conventional system, saving you hundreds of dollars each year.

•Consistent humidity levels: When your heating and cooling system cycles completely on and off, it also affects the humidity levels in your home. How many times have you turned on the air conditioner not because you were warm, but because the air in your home felt too humid? Constant operation means a consistent humidity level, too.

•Improved home comfort: With no more major temperatures swings, you can feel comfortable all day long.

Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).For more information about your variable-speed air handler ,Indoor Comfort and other HVAC topics,click here to visit our website

Repair or Replace Dilemma? Facts about Your A/C’s Lifespan

2012-02-06T18:53:00.000-08:00

When HVAC problems start to arise, many homeowners struggle with the question of whether to repair or replace their systems. It’s a difficult and complex question to answer, and it requires a careful assessment not only of initial costs, but also of the extended lifespan repairs which must be considered against the benefits of installing a brand-new system.

For the most part, a good HVAC system should last you around 10 years and only require minimal repairs. This is especially true if you conduct regular preventive maintenance to keep the system running strong. It’s not uncommon for people who take good care of their HVAC systems to get 12 to 15 years of use out of it. Thus, when you move into a new home with central air and heating, it’s extremely important that you learn all you can about the history of the system; find out when it was installed, whether it’s had parts replaced, and whether it’s been maintained properly.

Here are some tips to help you solve the repair or replace dilemma:

■If your system is more than 10 years old, a major repair is really not recommended. A system replacement usually makes more financial sense.

■Older systems become less efficient over time, even when they’re running optimally. New systems will help you save energy. Make sure to factor in your lowered energy bills when you’re doing your “repair or replace” analysis.

■If you’re getting a lot of hot spots and cold spots, if your system struggles to keep your home cool when it’s hot outside and if your system is making strange noises or vibrations, it may make more sense to replace it.

HVAC repair costs can really add up and if they’re not going to solve the problem and help extend the life of a quality, efficient system, replacing it may make more sense. In northeast Florida,Action Air Heating and Air Conditioning is a leading provider of reliable, efficient HVAC solutions, and we’ll be happy to provide you with the help, advice or service you need.

Thermostat Options For Heating And Cooling Systems

2012-02-04T04:02:00.000-08:00

When it comes to thermostat options, you basically have two choices: manual or programmable. Both of them are easy to use, but only a programmable thermostat will help you increase energy savings without sacrificing home comfort.

Adjusting your thermostat settings while you are at work or sleeping is a smart and easy way to reduce energy use and lower your utility bills. But coming home to a cold house in winter or a hot, stuffy house in summer is not pleasant for anybody. Using programmable thermostat settings around your regular schedule can help you avoid these problems.

Did you know that in winter you can save up to 3 percent on your energy bills for every degree you lower the thermostat? In summer you can save as much as 4 percent for every degree it’s raised. These savings can really add up, but to get the most from your programmable thermostat, you need to consider a couple key factors:

■Thermostat calibration: Professional installation is highly recommended for new thermostats because correct calibration is critical for proper operation. Your technician should also check the thermostat calibration and settings as part of annual routine maintenance. Don’t forget that your thermostat is a key part of your heating and cooling system.

■Thermostat placement: If your thermostat is placed on a wall that is exposed to a lot of daytime sun or drafts from doorways, the reading will not reflect the actual temperature in the room. Your contractor can help you identify the best thermostat placement, taking into account both external factors and the need for easy access. When exploring your thermostat options, consider the benefits of installing a zoning system at the same time.

Professional installation and maintenance ensures that you get accurate readings, and following these thermostat setting tips will help you maximize energy savings.

If you are ready to upgrade to a programmable thermostat, or even if you just need a little help with the one you already have, <strong>contact the friendly experts at Action Heating and Air Conditioning. Serving Northeast Florida, we’re always happy to help.

Improve Duct Efficiency With These 3 Tips

2012-02-02T16:42:00.000-08:00

Your heating and cooling system is just that — a system. Several components play a role in the overall energy efficiency of the system, including the HVAC equipment, ductwork, thermostats and your home.

Inefficiencies in any one of these areas can result in higher utility bills and reduced home comfort. However, duct efficiency plays a particularly important role because ductwork is the delivery system for heated and cooled air.

In Northeast Florida, the highest energy expense is typically for air conditioning during the long cooling season. Improving duct efficiency can help reduce energy bills by keeping more cooled air within the ductwork so it is delivered to your living spaces. These three tips will help improve duct efficiency in your home:

■Find and seal air leaks: Over time, joints between ducts can become loose, flexible ductwork can tear or be punctured and seals can become cracked. Look for air leaks near supply and return registers, at the point where the ductwork connects to HVAC equipment and at any other connection points in the duct system. Seal leaks with mastic tape and replace flexible ductwork when necessary.

■Insulate ductwork: If you have ducts running through unconditioned spaces like the garage or an unfinished basement, heat can be transferred between the air in the ducts and the air outside, heating conditioned air in summer or allowing heat to be lost in winter. This heat transfer causes your heating and cooling system to run more frequently to keep your living spaces at the desired temperature and increases energy bills.

■Ensure proper equipment sizing: If you are purchasing a new heating and cooling system, a proper load calculation is essential for maintaining good duct efficiency. While it may be tempting to buy a larger air conditioner, overloading the ducts can actually reduce energy efficiency and cost you more in the long run.

The Indoor Experts at Action Heating and Air Conditioning can help you evaluate the performance of your entire HVAC system, including duct efficiency. Contact us at any time to schedule an appointment or just to ask for advice from one of our courteous professionals. Serving Northeast Florida, we’re always happy to help.

Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).For more information about your Indoor Comfort and other HVAC topics,click here to visit our website

During Flu Season, Use UV Lights To Combat Germs

2012-01-31T19:35:00.000-08:00

If you have already been hit with a winter cold or flu, you may be wishing you had a way to combat germs in your home. If you’re still breathing easy, it’s not too late. Installing UV lights in your ductwork can help remove unwanted organisms such as bacteria and viruses that may cause illness.
Unlike air filters, UV lights do not trap particles. Instead, they target living single-celled organisms like mold, bacteria and viruses. The wavelength of UV light disrupts the cell walls of these biological contaminants, either killing them or making them inert.

There are many advantages to installing UV lights in your ductwork:

■Silent operation: Unlike portable air filters that are constantly blowing, a UV light system makes no noise at all.

■Easy maintenance: There are no moving parts to maintain, and the bulbs typically only need to be changed once a year, which your contractor can do during a routine maintenance appointment.

■Improved energy efficiency: Bacteria and mold can build up on the interior surfaces of your heating and cooling equipment, especially on your air conditioner. Because a UV light system is integrated into your ductwork, it also disinfects the surfaces of the ducts and your home comfort equipment, which will operate more efficiently when it is clean.

■Fewer odors: Many people find that unwanted odors are reduced or eliminated when a UV light system is installed. Mold and mildew are unable to grow, and odor-producing bacteria are destroyed.

■Year-round protection: While it may be flu season now, this is not the only time of year when mold and bacteria can impact your health. Because air conditioners typically run constantly during the long cooling season in Northeast Florida, UV lights can help prevent bacteria from circulating through your home.

We can help you find the indoor air quality solutions that make the most sense for your home. Whether you need to use UV lights, advanced air filters, a humidity-control system or any combination of these, we’ll help you select the right products and provide expert installation. Contact the experts at Action Heating and Air Conditioning ,Inc.today to schedule a consultation.

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

Trying to Get Air to a New Space? Ductless Options Can Help

2012-01-31T02:53:00.000-08:00

Additions to your home can be difficult to heat and cool. Spaces with hydronic systems, radiant panels, or a bonus room over a garage, can also prove tricky. Ductless heating and cooling is a good option to get airflow to spaces like this. Maybe your existing system does not accommodate certain rooms or additions, or maybe it’s just not possible to install ducts where you need them. In these circumstances, ductless heating and cooling is versatile and practical.

Ductless heating and cooling systems are called mini-splits. Their biggest advantage is their small size, which allows them to heat or cool specific zones. You can purchase a single unit, or a model that has as many as four units that allows you to heat or cool four different zones. Each zone has its own thermostat, so you can adjust each as needed or keep them off if no one is using the space. This makes for great savings because you aren’t using energy you don’t need.

Mini-splits are easy to install. They consist of two units, an indoor air-handler and an outdoor compressor/condenser. The two are linked by a conduit through the wall, which in some models can be up to 50 feet long, giving you a great deal of space to place your units where you need them.

Another advantage of ductless heating and cooling systems is that they can be installed any place a small, 3-inch hole can be made in the wall. They can even be hung in the corner near the ceiling. Most models run very quietly, and many even operate by remote and filter the air as they heat or cool it.

Most mini-split systems are either a heat pump or an air conditioner model. Heat pumps are a good choice for climates that experience both warm and cool weather, since they have the ability to pump heat both into and out of a small space. Mini-split air conditioners work well for consistently warmer temperatures like ours.

Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).For more information about mini-split systems and other HVAC topics,click here to visit our website.

Get Dehumidification at the Source With a Duct-Mounted System

2012-01-29T02:27:00.000-08:00

Excess humidity can cause a whole host of problems. Aside from feeling “sticky” and uncomfortable in your own skin, your home and the health of your family may be affected when too much moisture is in the air. There are several dehumidification systems available today, some of which can be mounted directly to your ductwork.

When humidity levels are too high in your home it can result in mold, mildew and damage to furnishings, paneled walls and even wood. Wood tends to swell in an environment that is too wet, and humidity levels that remain above 60 percent on a regular basis often lead to the growth of fungi which can affect your family’s health.

Homeowners frequently use portable devices for dehumidification, but this method is often insufficient for treating your entire home. To achieve comfortable indoor air that is also healthier, whole-house systems are effective.

A duct-mounted system offers many benefits:

■No tank to empty, as the unit can be drained into a floor drain or attached to the home’s water drainage system.

■Maintains optimum humidity levels automatically, and runs only when excess moisture needs to be removed.

■Can be operated manually when you want to control humidity in a single location such as a bedroom or basement.

■Removes far more moisture from the air than portable dehumidifiers.

A duct-mounted dehumidification system also allows fresh air to come in to your home from outside, while, if needed, removing the excess moisture from this air. In general you will experience improved indoor air quality and comfort levels while lowering the risk of mold, mildew and damage to your home.

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.

Life After Freon: New Refrigerant Options for Air Conditioners

2012-01-28T17:23:00.000-08:00

In 1987, a little-known piece of international environmental protection legislation called the Montreal Protocol was passed in response to growing concerns over ozone depletion. Among its provisions was an eventual ban on the air conditioner refrigerant R-22, which contains chlorine, a gas known to create harmful by-products.
While the Montreal Protocol allowed for the production of R-22 to continue until the year 2020, it also stipulated that all air conditioners produced in the year 2010 and beyond would not use R-22. Because R-22 has been the standard AC refrigerant for more than 40 years, it’s important that you learn about the alternatives that the HVAC industry has helped develop.

A chemical known as R-410A has become the most popular replacement for R-22. It contains no chlorine and is significantly less harsh on the environment. Still, it is only one of numerous options consumers have, and making an informed choice is the key to reducing the impact of your carbon footprint.

Other modern “R-series” refrigerants include R-134A and R-407C. These gases are similar in makeup to R-410A, but have a broader range of applications. While air conditioning systems that use these gases instead of R-22 are more costly, it is expected that the end price of HVAC units using them will go down as they become a universal standard and technological improvements enable manufacturers to lower their production costs.

If you need advice on new HVAC systems or the refrigerants they use, contact us at Action Heating and Air Conditionig,Inc. We’ve been serving northeast Florida for nearly half a century.

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

Repair or Replace Dilemma? Facts about Your A/C’s Lifespan

2012-01-24T17:30:00.000-08:00

When HVAC problems start to arise, many homeowners struggle with the question of whether to repair or replace their systems. It’s a difficult and complex question to answer, and it requires a careful assessment not only of initial costs, but also of the extended lifespan repairs which must be considered against the benefits of installing a brand-new system.

For the most part, a good HVAC system should last you around 10 years and only require minimal repairs. This is especially true if you conduct regular preventive maintenance to keep the system running strong. It’s not uncommon for people who take good care of their HVAC systems to get 12 to 15 years of use out of it. Thus, when you move into a new home with central air and heating, it’s extremely important that you learn all you can about the history of the system; find out when it was installed, whether it’s had parts replaced, and whether it’s been maintained properly.

Here are some tips to help you solve the repair or replace dilemma:

■If your system is more than 10 years old, a major repair is really not recommended. A system replacement usually makes more financial sense.

■Older systems become less efficient over time, even when they’re running optimally. New systems will help you save energy. Make sure to factor in your lowered energy bills when you’re doing your “repair or replace” analysis.

■If you’re getting a lot of hot spots and cold spots, if your system struggles to keep your home cool when it’s hot outside and if your system is making strange noises or vibrations, it may make more sense to replace it.

HVAC repair costs can really add up and if they’re not going to solve the problem and help extend the life of a quality, efficient system, replacing it may make more sense. In northeast Florida, Action Heating and Air Conditioniong,Inc. is a leading provider of reliable, efficient HVAC solutions, and we’ll be happy to provide you with the help, advice or service you need.

How Bad Is The Air In Your Home?

2012-01-22T04:34:00.000-08:00

Indoor air quality is not something most people worry about on a daily basis. However, there can be serious consequences to poor indoor air quality. Dirty air often contains toxins and mold spores that can lead to allergy symptoms and even illness in some cases. We highly recommend taking certain steps to maintaining quality indoor air.

One of the easiest ways to keep your indoor air quality high is to replace the filter on your home heating or cooling system frequently. If you have not changed the filter in the last six months, chances are the air in your home is becoming laden with dust and mold spores. We recommend having the filter replaced at least twice per year. If you have pets, you may need to change the filter even more frequently as dander and hair build up in the system.

Another way that homeowners can keep their air clean is by cleaning the evaporator coils of interior and exterior systems. This is a job that may require some professional assistance and should be done every 2 to 3 years. Also, watch for any ice buildup on the coils. This is a sign of serious malfunction and you should contact a professional immediately if you spot this.

Another common cause of low indoor air quality is an obstructed condenser. The condenser pulls air in around it to allow for heat transfer, and if objects are blocking it, air flow may be restricted. Keep any vegetation away from the condenser to avoid obstruction.

A lack of regular maintenance of your air conditioning and heating systems can easily lead to dirty air. If you haven’t performed these tasks in awhile, be sure to get started as soon as possible.

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

Don’t Leave Indoor Air Quality To Chance. Control it!

2012-01-21T04:55:00.000-08:00

Indoor air quality is a key factor in maintaining your family’s health, and one of our top priorities here at Action Heating and Air Conditioning , to help you stay well and comfortable in your home. Here are some steps you can take to make sure this happens.

■Use a dehumidifier. Keeping the amount of humidity in your home’s air under control improves the quality of the air you’re breathing. Your friends here at Conditioned Air recommend you keep the relative humidity level somewhere between 30 and 50 percent.

■Keep your air handler functioning properly. Because the air handler of your A/C system is where dehumidification occurs, it’s important to have a professional contractor inspect it on a regular basis.

■Clean or replace your air filters frequently.

■A good quality air filtration system creates not only better levels of air purity, but also superior ventilation.

■UV lights and other state of the art technologies are additional ways to help keep your indoor air quality at optimum levels for good health.

All family members benefit from an A/C system that cleans the air as well as cooling it. Particularly, those who suffer from allergies or respiratory problems will notice a difference when the air is cleaner. But why leave anyone’s health to chance when you can easily control your indoor air quality? Your air filter helps to trap and eliminate such contaminants as bacteria, pet dander, pollen, mold and other pollutants. Action Heating and Air Conditioning offers a variety of systems and components designed to keep you and your family healthy.
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Modern home construction standards prevent drafts and save energy, but the tight construction may make indoor air quality far less healthy than the outside air. Mold, viruses, dust and even odors that are recirculated via your air conditioning system can cause a multitude of health problems.

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

During Flu Season, Use UV Lights To Combat Germs

2012-01-19T02:57:00.000-08:00

If you have already been hit with a winter cold or flu, you may be wishing you had a way to combat germs in your home. If you’re still breathing easy, it’s not too late. Installing UV lights in your ductwork can help remove unwanted organisms such as bacteria and viruses that may cause illness.
Unlike air filters, UV lights do not trap particles. Instead, they target living single-celled organisms like mold, bacteria and viruses. The wavelength of UV light disrupts the cell walls of these biological contaminants, either killing them or making them inert.

There are many advantages to installing UV lights in your ductwork:

* Silent operation: Unlike portable air filters that are constantly blowing, a UV light system makes no noise at all.

*Easy maintenance: There are no moving parts to maintain, and the bulbs typically only need to be changed once a year, which your contractor can do during a routine maintenance appointment.

*Improved energy efficiency: Bacteria and mold can build up on the interior surfaces of your heating and cooling equipment, especially on your air conditioner. Because a UV light system is integrated into your ductwork, it also disinfects the surfaces of the ducts and your home comfort equipment, which will operate more efficiently when it is clean.

*Fewer odors: Many people find that unwanted odors are reduced or eliminated when a UV light system is installed. Mold and mildew are unable to grow, and odor-producing bacteria are destroyed.

*Year-round protection: While it may be flu season now, this is not the only time of year when mold and bacteria can impact your health. Because air conditioners typically run constantly during the long cooling season in Northeast Florida, UV lights can help prevent bacteria from circulating through your home.

We can help you find the indoor air quality solutions that make the most sense for your home. Whether you need UV lights, advanced air filters, a humidity-control system or any combination of these, we’ll help you select the right products and provide expert installation. Contact the experts (Click Here) at Action Heating and Air Conditioning today to schedule a consultation.

Results You Can See: Return on Investment Calculations for High Efficiency Air Conditioning Systems

2012-01-15T08:40:00.000-08:00

High efficiency air conditioning systems have many benefits for homeowners. The US Department of Energy estimates the average US household spends about $1,000 per year on heating and cooling. Switching to a high efficiency system could save up to 59 percent of these costs. High efficiency air conditioning systems may cost more up front, but for those who live in areas with long cooling seasons, who consistently have high energy bills, or want to protect the environment, a high efficiency system is a good investment (high efficiency models use the environmentally friendly refrigerant R-410A). How much could you save with a high efficiency air conditioner? Action Heating and Air Conditioning has put together a few facts to help educate you.

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. It’s a ratings system used to estimate the efficiency of HVAC systems, just like MPG rates the efficiency of automobiles. A higher SEER rating means your system gets more cooling delivered per electricity watts. A high SEER means you get better “miles per gallon” out of your system.

Many factors influence how much high efficiency air conditioning systems save. System settings, equipment maintenance, and the system’s design are just a few. For a basic estimate of how much you’ll be able to save take at look at your system’s current SEER rating and your annual cooling costs. Older systems have lower ratings; those installed in 1992 or earlier are usually rated 10 or lower.

Using the average US household’s annual energy costs of $1,000, an 8 SEER system (with very low efficiency) could be spending as little as $410 each year by upgrading to a high-efficiency 19.5 system. That’s a savings of almost 60 percent. A household with a 12 SEER system, spending about $533 annually, could be spending as little as $356 with an 18 SEER system.

High efficiency air conditioning systems cost more up front, but most pay for themselves within several seasons. Visit our website to see a more detailed chart of estimated savings, and if you’re interested in learning more about upgrading to a high efficiency system, call Action Heating and Air Conditioning!

A Whole-House Dehumidification System: Benefits For Your Northeast Florida Home

2012-01-10T17:23:00.000-08:00

Northeast Florida’s mild and wet climate often presents a humidity problem in the home. Humidity levels reach well above 60 percent outdoors, and even indoors. High humidity levels present many problems, including the growth of mold and mildew and the increase of dust mites and bacteria that thrive in wet conditions.
Humid air also feels warmer on the skin. Adding 10 percent humidity can increase the heat index by 3 degrees. When using the air conditioner, additional humidity in the air leads to increased costs.

A whole-house dehumidification system can prevent the humidity levels from becoming too high in your home. The humidification system will keep humidity levels between 30 and 50 percent, which is considered ideal.

The system works by sucking excess moisture from the air. This benefits energy savings because dry air feels cooler on the skin. Dry air tries to suck moisture out anywhere it can, and often takes moisture from your body, leaving a cool feeling behind. With dryer air, you can raise the air conditioner setting by 3 or 4 degrees and feel just as cool as you did at cooler temperatures in humid conditions. You can save up to 10 percent in cooling costs by raising the temperature a few degrees.

For more information on how a whole-house dehumidification system can benefit your Northeast Florida home and save you money this winter and in the future, contact us at Action Heating and Air Conditioning. With more than 30 years of expert HVAC service under our belt, we are happy to answer any questions you have.

Programmable Thermostat Features You’ll Like (Hint: They Go Way Beyond Temperature Settings)

2012-01-07T01:32:00.000-08:00

Programmable thermostats offer many features that go beyond temperature control to offer convenience, comfort and more. One impressive feature is energy savings. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, using the right thermostat and programming it correctly could save you up to $180 a year!

Various models offer different features which complement weekly schedules. There are three common models:

7 day models are the most flexible, allowing you to program different settings for morning, afternoon, evening and night for each day of the week.

5+ 2 day models are a good choice for people keeping one schedule Monday-Friday, and another on Saturday and Sunday.

5-1-1 day models have three programmable “slots,” one for the work week, a second for Saturdays, and a third for Sundays.

Remote access allows for zone temperature control. Sensors are placed in individual rooms or zones throughout the house, and connected to the main unit. If you want your bedroom warm in the morning, you can set the temperature to rise when you wake up in that specific location. You can also keep children’s rooms from becoming too cold without giving the children access to the controls. Some remote access models even allow you to adjust settings by phone or internet before you get home.

Programmable thermostats make keeping comfortable convenient. Action Air will be glad to help you decide which features suit your lifestyle to offer the maximum control, versatility and energy savings!

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

Poor Ductwork Design and Sealing Can Send Your Conditioned Air Astray: Three Factors To Consider

2012-01-07T01:24:00.000-08:00

A home’s poor ductwork design and inadequate sealing can account for significant energy loss on a daily basis. The problem is, you’re the one paying for that energy. With that in mind, it’s time to assess whether your conditioned air is safe within your ducts.

Here are three factors to consider:

Design.
If your ductwork wasn’t designed with certain aspects of your home’s floor plan in mind, your conditioned air may be leaking out. Common problems include ducts that are stretched too tight or kinked to be maneuvered around obstructions, as well as ducts that are installed too close to appliances that could affect the temperature or quality of the air inside.

Sealing.
Duct leaks can cause you to lose as much as 20 percent of your conditioned air. While you can inspect and seal accessible duct leaks on your own, a heating and cooling professional can do a more thorough job, reaching ducts that you cannot, such as those hidden behind walls and ceilings. Common issues include loose connections and rips and tears in flexible ductwork. These can be sealed using duct mastic or metal-backed tape.

Insulation.
In most homes, large sections of ductwork run through unconditioned areas such as the attic, basement or crawl space. Extreme temperatures in these areas can affect your conditioned air. With proper insulation, however, you can reduce energy loss in such situations.

If you suspect you’re losing energy through ill-conceived, leaky or exposed ducts, contact one of our trained technicians for a professional assessment. Using our training, experience and specialized tools of the trade, we can determine where your problems lie and help you form a plan of Action.

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

UV Lights: Germ-Fighting Technology Makes The Transition From Hospital To Home

2011-10-14T17:11:00.000-07:00

Hospitals around the world have been utilizing the power of UV lights for decades to inhibit the spread of harmful microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses and mold. Advances in technology have made UV lights a good fit for residential use as well, much to the benefit of homeowners — particularly homeowners in warm, humid Northeast Florida, where microorganisms thrive.

As the name implies, UV lights emit ultraviolet rays. Given sufficient intensity, UV rays will destroy the genetic code — DNA or RNA — of tiny organisms. This results in either death or sterilization of the microorganism, resulting in a considerable reduction of its presence in your home.

The sun also emits ultraviolet rays, which is why sunlight is effective at killing bacteria. Overexposure to UV rays from the sun can result in sunburn and eye irritation, but in household appliances UV lights are enclosed and have a small, focused range, posing no threat to people or pets.

UV lights are a powerful tool for managing your indoor air quality but aren’t meant to replace particulate-trapping air filters, though many units include a traditional filter in addition to the UV light. UV lights are designed to complement your air-cleaning efforts by addressing the bioaerosol category of pollutants.

Another benefit of UV light systems is odor reduction. Many bacteria, molds and other organisms create unpleasant, lingering odors that will be eliminated as the source is neutralized.

Residential UV lights are available in room units or whole-home systems. Whole-home systems are more efficient and effective and can be easily incorporated into existing HVAC systems. In cases of severe allergies or asthma, however, room units may still prove beneficial, especially in bedrooms.

Selecting the ideal whole-house unit for your home depends on a number of factors, including the size of your home and what systems are already in place. A knowledgeable technician can explain the options available for your unique home in more detail.

Do you still have questions, or would you like to learn more about UV lights and indoor air quality? Contact Action Air to speak with one of our trained technicians.

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

Geothermal Heat Pump System Benefits For Florida Homeowners

2011-10-01T16:42:00.000-07:00

Since their first use in the 1940s, geothermal heat pump systems have been used successfully in a variety of climates. However, heat pumps — used to both cool and heat homes — are more efficient than average in warmer climates like Florida’s. Many advances have been made since their first use; the EPA now rates geothermal heat pumps as one of the most energy-efficient technologies available.

The beauty and efficiency of a heat pump lies in its simplicity. Unlike traditional heating and cooling systems, which burn fuel to warm or cool your air, a heat pump transfers heat between your home and the earth below ground — where the temperature stays remarkably consistent no matter the weather conditions above ground. A small amount of electricity is used to move and distribute air as needed in your home.

Particularly considering the extensive use of air conditioning during the hot Florida summers, geothermal heat pump systems offer many advantages. Geothermal heat pump systems are:

■Highly efficient. Because a heat pump gets warm or cool air from the earth, not from burning a fuel, they use far less energy than even the highest-rated furnace to produce the same level of comfort or better.

■Durable. The above-ground portion of a heat pump system typically lasts 15 or more years. The underground portion can be expected to last at least 50 years. Traditional furnaces average 10 years.

■Low maintenance. Heat pumps have considerably fewer moving parts than traditional systems, resulting in fewer breakdowns and repairs.

■Clean. Heat pumps create no carbon monoxide or other pollutants.

■Quiet. A heat pump system does not need an outdoor condensing unit like a conventional air conditioner. No more annoying hum!

■Cost-effective. They significantly reduce utility bills. Also, many geothermal systems qualify for federal tax credits.

Please feel free to contact the professionals at Action Heating and Air Conditioning for more information about geothermal heat pump systems. We are always happy to answer questions.

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

UV Light Systems Work Wonders In Florida’s Balmy Weather

2011-07-31T16:58:00.000-07:00

Lots of things grow well here in the warm, humid air of Florida. We supply the world with oranges and other citrus fruits. Vegetables, too, thrive in this moist and hot climate. Unfortunately, some less desirable organisms grow and multiply here as well. Mold, bacteria and viruses enjoy our beautiful climate just as we do.

One of the places microorganisms like to live is inside our homes. We bring outside contaminants into our homes on our clothes and bodies every day. Once inside, the contaminants have the opportunity to grow and multiply. Meanwhile, we live sealed inside our homes, breathing the air that’s cycled though our cooling systems. As that air circulates, plenty of those unwanted germs and fungal spores also circulate.

An easy way to mitigate the threat posed by these microorganisms: the use of ultraviolet light. A UV light air-cleaning system, tucked away in your heating and air system, works 24 hours a day. We can’t always avoid bacteria and viruses, but we can take control of them in our own homes.

How do they work? UV light air cleaners — also called “germicidal lights” — can be installed as part of your existing HVAC equipment. As air laden with spores, bacteria and viruses passes through the UV light, the light actually changes the microorganisms’ cell structure, making them unable to reproduce and grow. Eventually, they die.

If you would like to know more facts about how these simple light systems can clean the air in your home, contact the indoor-air experts at Action Air. We can explain how ultraviolet light can reduce your exposure to microorganisms that can infiltrate your home.

No-Brainer Advice: Keep Those Air Filters Changed

2011-06-25T07:22:00.000-07:00

An air conditioning system is only as good as its air filter. Dirty air filters partially block the air flowing through your HVAC system. With less air flowing through, your system has to work harder to cool your home. You’ll see the waste of energy show up on your utility bills. Dirty filters can also contribute to malfunctioning equipment.

Your air filter should be changed at least once every three months. If you’re using your air system frequently, however, the filter might need to be changed as frequently as monthly. If it looks dirty, change it.
Putting in a new air filter is an easy do-it-yourself project, but it can be a hassle if you are unprepared. Some tips:

■Get the correct size. Air filters come in a variety of dimensions. Your system requires an exact fit. Look at your old filter or check your owner’s manual.

■Buy a bundle of air filters. You’ll be changing your air filter more than once. Buy a bunch to save trips to the store later.

■Write in on the calendar. Changing an air filter is a simple job, but only if you remember to do it. Especially during the hottest months, when you use your A/C most, write monthly reminders on your calender.

Changing your air filter is one of the easiest ways to help keep your home energy efficient.
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

Planning A Remodel Or New Construction? Bring In The HVAC Experts Early

2011-05-21T08:22:00.000-07:00

When building a new home or doing a comprehensive remodel of your existing home, you should keep in mind from the start that your house is a functional, engineered system, not just a collection of rooms that need to look nice on the inside. It’s why you should take care when choosing a heating and air conditioning contractor, and make sure to involve the company early in the process.

Otherwise, you may find that you’ll have to stop work and reconfigure your plans or have to spend time, effort, energy and a whole lot of extra money to fix what your HVAC expert could have caught early on.
However, all experts aren’t cut from the same cloth. Here are a few tips you should consider when choosing a heating and air conditioning contractor before you start your work:

■Ask your neighbors and friends. Good word-of-mouth referrals from people you trust will tell you a lot about the companies you are looking at. Once you start narrowing your options down, don’t hesitate to call the companies’ references.

■Be ready for the companies to do home evaluations and look to see how comprehensive the evaluations are when comparing their written estimates.

■Once you do select a contractor, make sure they are involved as early in the construction process as possible. Also, get a signed proposal. It will detail the scope and the costs of the work before it begins.
Choosing a heating and air conditioning contractor when you remodel or build a new house doesn’t have to be a hassle. Don’t hesitate to read up on what work you might need and how it will be done, and keep asking questions.

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

Got a Pool? Heat it the Smart Way

2011-04-30T18:10:00.000-07:00

Pool owners know how expensive it can be to keep their pool water at a comfortable temperature. The good news is, there’s a smart, efficient way to do it that won’t force you to shorten your swimming season, or tax your energy budget. Most homeowners who have heat pumps use them to economically heat and cool their homes. But a heat pump can also heat water by using heat from the air around the unit and transferring it to the water in your pool.

Heat pump water heaters use electricity to move heat from one place to another instead of generating heat directly. They operate by recovering heat from the atmosphere instead of using fuel to create it. Therefore, they can be 2-3 times more energy efficient than conventional electric resistance water heaters. And, there’s no need to store fossil fuels on your property.

Since it holds substantial amounts of heat, sun-warmed air is the energy source used for this type of water heater. The pool heat pump recycles heat energy that already exists in the air around us. Transferring heat is much less expensive than burning a fuel for heat.

Here’s how it works:

1.A large quantity of warm air is drawn across the air coil by a high-efficiency motor and fan blade.

2.Cold liquid R-410A refrigerant inside the air coil absorbs heat from warm air and changes to a warm gas.

3.Warm gas is compressed by a new high efficiency scroll compressor. The R-410A is now a hot gas.

4.Hot gas moves through the outer casing of the water coil, releasing heat to the cooler pool & spa water passing through the inner casing of the water coil.

5.The R-410A condenses back to a liquid, then the process repeats itself over and over until your pool or spa is up to your desired temperature.

These units are quiet and energy-efficient, and better yet, they don’t require vents, flues, or expensive piping, allowing for installation almost anywhere. We believe that this type of heat pump is the most economical way to heat your pool in Southwest Florida, so check out your options.

If you want to learn more about how to efficiently heat your pool water, contact us. We’ll provide you with a free, no obligation analysis that includes sizing, operational cost and an objective comparison to fossil fuel and solar. We can also calculate your return on investment. So, if you have a pool, heat it the smart way! We can show you how.

Get to Know your Air Conditioner

2011-04-29T17:30:00.000-07:00

It’s air conditioning season, and by now you’ve probably had your checkup done, you’ve got your A/C unit cranked up, and it’s keeping you cool and dry during these hot, humid summer days. You’re probably not thinking much about how it works, what the parts do, and how they work together to keep you comfortable. Of course, here at Action Air, we think you should know as much as possible about your HVAC system so that you can keep it operating smoothly and efficiently. So in the next couple of posts I’d like to go over the basics of air conditioning and heat pump cooling.

Most people think that air conditioners lower the temperature in their homes simply by pumping cool air in. What’s really happening is that the warm air from your house is being circulated through the air handler and cycled back in as cooler air. This cycle continues until your thermostat reaches the desired temperature.

Air conditioners work in the same way as refrigerators. Of course, instead of cooling just a small space, an air conditioning system cools a whole house; but the principle is the same. Air conditioners use chemicals, or refrigerants, that convert from a gas to a liquid and back again. This chemical is used to transfer heat from the air inside of a home to the outside air.

The unit has three main parts– a compressor, a condenser and an evaporator. The compressor and condenser are usually on the portion of the air conditioner that is located outside the home. The evaporator is located on the inside the house, often as part of your heating unit.

The evaporative cycle is the action that produces cool air in your home:

1.The compressor compresses cool refrigerant gas, causing it to become hot, high-pressure gas.

2.This hot gas runs through a set of coils so it can dissipate its heat, and it condenses into a liquid.

3.The refrigerant liquid runs through an expansion valve, and in the process it evaporates to become cold, low-pressure gas.

4.This cold gas runs through a set of coils that allow the gas to absorb heat and cool down the air inside the building.

In order to circulate the cool air throughout your home and remove hot air, a fan on the evaporator blows air inside the house across the evaporator fins. The return grille and ductwork take the hot air through the ducts and into the evaporator. The hot air is actually used to expand the gas in the evaporator. As the heat is removed from the air, the air and coil are cooled. It is then blown into the house through supply ducts.

This continues over and over until the room reaches the temperature you set your thermostat to. When that happens, the thermostat senses that the temperature has reached the right setting and turns off the air conditioner. As the room warms up, the thermostat turns the air conditioner back on until the room reaches the desired temperature.

This is the basic process by which air conditioners work.

Next time, we’ll talk about how a heat pump cools your home.

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

Maintaining your Air Handler

2011-04-24T09:49:00.000-07:00

We’ve discussed the air handler and its function as part of your HVAC system. Now, let’s talk about some aspects of maintenance for this important system component. Professional service is highly recommended, as this is a pretty technical piece of equipment. We can come out as part of scheduled maintenance visits to check your air handler.

Spring maintenance checks can help you avoid costly A/C repairs when the heat of summer arrives. Air handling units have high voltage running into them and there is a shock hazard. So, remember that only an HVAC professional should work on the air handler unit.

Inside the unit are the evaporator, metering device (on most units), the blower motor, and some electro-mechanical controls for HVAC control. The metering device and the electro-mechanical controls should be checked by an HVAC professional to ensure that they are clean and functioning properly.

A big problem people encounter with the evaporator coils is blocked coils. Usually, this means that the coils are plugged with dust, dirt, and other debris. For the evaporator to work properly and efficiently, the coils must be clean and have a measured amount of air flow.

This is one reason that a good filter is necessary, in order to filter all the particles from the air before it reaches the coils. If the air is not filtered, then there will be a build-up over time of dust and debris that get sucked into the return. This build-up clogs the evaporator coil and can actually cause the coil to ice up. The air handling unit becomes less and less efficient and will eventually fail to cool or heat the home. Air handling units need basic preventive maintenance to prevent premature breakdowns and to keep them operating at peak efficiency.

Cleaning the coils is also an important part of air handler maintenance. Coils operate below the dew point when the air conditioner or heat pump cooling cycle is on. This will make the evaporator coil wet, so when the dust makes contact with the coil it will often stick to it. Over time this will cause a build up and eventually the HVAC system will stop cooling. With improper flow across the evaporator coils there is no heat exchange process. The coils will freeze and ice will form on them. Another cause of ice forming on the evaporator coil is a low refrigerant charge. If the evaporator coils are clean and they are icing up, you need to call an HVAC professional to check the refrigerant charge.

Typically the only required HVAC maintenance on the blower is oiling the air handler blower motor if it has oil ports, or checking the belt if you have a belt driven motor. Not all blower motors have oil ports. These blower motors use sealed bearings and never require oil. The air handler blower motors that do have oil ports usually have little plastic dust caps that can be removed so that oil can be applied.

Clean coils, a working motor, proper filters and refrigerant levels and good air flow are essential elements for the efficient operation of your air handler. If you suspect that your air handler isn’t doing its job, let us know. With regular maintenance, you can get the best performance out of this critical piece of HVAC equipment.

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

What is an Air Handler?

2011-04-24T09:32:00.000-07:00

Your heating and cooling system is made up of many parts, all working together to keep you comfortable all year round. I’d like to talk about some of the components of your HVAC system—what they are and how they work. After all, the more you know about your system equipment, the better.

Let’s start with the air handler. An air handler is usually located in the garage, a closet, or in the attic (unless you have a package unit then the air handler is incorporated in the system). It is essential to any HVAC forced air system. All A/C units need a way to move the air, and the air handler serves this function. It houses the evaporator coils, the blower motor, and some HVAC controls. It can be an up flow, down flow, or horizontal flow AHU (air handling unit).

Knowing this information can help you find the filter if you have never changed the filter in this air handling unit. Some air handling units have the filter inside. If there is no filter in the return register or grill then the filter is either in the return duct or in the unit itself. Filtering the air is not only important for the indoor air quality in your home but it is essential for the proper operation of the air handling unit itself.

The evaporator coil carries refrigerant inside it. This coil and refrigerant, through the heat exchange process, absorbs heat from the air passing through the coils inside the air handler. The heat causes the refrigerant inside the evaporator coils to boil and change state. The refrigerant, where it enters the coil, is mostly a liquid. By the time it reaches the end of the coils it should have absorbed enough heat to change it from a liquid to a vapor. On the outside of the unit there are two copper lines. The large line is the suction line. This line carries the vapor (refrigerant) back to the compressor in the condensing unit. The small line is called a liquid line. This line carries liquid (refrigerant) from the condensing unit coils to the evaporator. When the unit is running the liquid line should be hot and suction line should be cold (unless it is a heat pump in the heating mode). The temperatures of these lines will vary depending on how hot the house is inside and the ambient temperature outside the home.

The blower is comprised of different components in most units. It has an electric motor, a blower wheel, and a cage typically referred to as a squirrel cage. Some air handling units have belt driven motors and most have capacitors for the air handler electric motor.

Your air handler is a vital piece of HVAC equipment. Next time, we’ll talk about how to maintain your air handler to keep it and your system operating efficiently.

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

Are Your Air Conditioning Ducts Costing You Money?

2011-04-22T17:38:00.000-07:00

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 Indoor Air Quality and other HVAC topics,click here to visit our website

Air Conditioning Maintenance- Don’t Neglect It!

2011-04-21T16:24:00.000-07:00

This is a topic we can’t talk about enough. Here at Action Air, we believe that regular maintenance is one of the most important factors in your home comfort. All of the other measures you take to reduce energy use and increase comfort won’t be effective if your AC is not working properly. Maintenance ensures that your cooling system keeps you comfortable, works at peak efficiency, lasts longer and costs you less money in repairs.
So, let’s go over some of the basics of AC maintenance for Florida homeowners:

Filters

One of the most important maintenance task that will ensure the efficiency of your air conditioner is to routinely replace or clean its filters. Clogged, dirty filters block normal air flow and reduce a system’s efficiency significantly. With normal air flow obstructed, air that bypasses the filter may carry dirt directly into the evaporator coil and impair the coil’s heat-absorbing capacity. Keeping the filter clean can lower your air conditioner’s energy consumption by 5%–15%.

For central air conditioners, filters are generally located somewhere along the return duct’s length. Common filter locations are in walls, ceilings, air handler, or in the air conditioner itself.

Some types of filters are reusable; others must be replaced. They’re available in a variety of types and efficiencies. We can tell you which kinds of filters are right for your system, and clean or replace your air conditioning system’s filter or filters during regularly scheduled maintenance visits. You can do the job every month or two during the cooling season, as well. Filters may need more frequent attention if the air conditioner is in constant use, is subjected to dusty conditions, or you have fur-bearing pets in the house.

Coils

The air conditioner’s evaporator coil and condenser coil collect dirt over their months and years of service. A clean filter prevents the evaporator coil from soiling quickly. In time, however, the evaporator coil will still collect dirt. This dirt reduces air flow and insulates the coil, reducing its ability to absorb heat. To avoid this problem, check your evaporator coil every year and clean it as necessary.

Outdoor condenser coils can also become very dirty if the outdoor environment is dusty or if there is foliage nearby. You can easily see the condenser coil and notice if dirt is collecting on its fins.

You should minimize dirt and debris near the condenser unit. Your dryer vents, falling leaves, and lawn mower are all potential sources of dirt and debris. Cleaning the area around the coil, removing any debris, and trimming foliage back at least 18 inches to 2 feet to allow for adequate air flow around the condenser.

Fins

The aluminum fins on evaporator and condenser coils are easily bent and can block air flow through the coil. Air conditioning wholesalers sell a tool called a “fin comb” that will comb these fins back into nearly original condition. We can also take care of this during preventative maintenance.

Condensate drains

Clogged drain channels prevent your cooling unit from reducing humidity, and the resulting excess moisture may discolor walls or carpet. Routine cleaning with a shop vac and approved drain cleaning additive is very worthwhile.

Regular AC maintenance is worth the extra few minutes it takes each month to make sure these important components are working properly. Another smart idea? Sign up for a maintenance contract. Our highly-trained technicians can be your AC system’s best friend!

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

What Makes HEPA Air Filters Different?

2011-04-20T13:21:00.000-07:00

The average Northeast Florida home’s indoor air quality is 10 times more polluted than the outdoor air, which is consistent with national trends in indoor pollution. Indoor air can become “bottled up,” especially in homes that are sealed tightly to maximize energy efficiency, as it isn’t exchanged as often. These are a few reasons why indoor air filters are so important to your health and the integrity of your equipment. Different filtration methods are available. HEPA air filters are one of the most popular options, because of their ability to capture more than 99.95 percent of particles.
HEPA stands for High Efficiency Particulate Arrestance. HEPA filters are generally capable of capturing particles as small as 0.3 microns, which is smaller than the human eye can see. Originally developed for military and biomechanical use, they are currently some of the most efficient residential air filters on the market. HEPA filters can remove:

■Dust

■Dust mites

■Pollen

■Mold spores

■Various allergens

■Pet dander

HEPA filter fibers are usually made of fiberglass and are arranged haphazardly, very close to one another to create a dense “mat.” The material has many more pleats per inch than in standard filters. Another way they differ from standard air filters in that they do not merely function like a “sieve,” but rely on air movement to trap particles in three different ways:

■Interception, in which particles become stuck to fibers

■Impaction, in which particles get stuck in the weave

■Diffusion, where the most minuscule particles collide with gas molecules, slowing down their process and making them more likely to be trapped by interception or impaction.

HEPA filters are not the only option out there. Some homeowners find that HEPA filters can make their systems work too hard pull air through the filter, so check with the technician the next time you’re due for preventive maintenance to find out the right filter for your system.

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.

Repair or Replace Dilemma? Facts about Your A/C’s Lifespan

2011-04-19T19:56:00.000-07:00

Do you have a room or addition to your Northeast Florida home that never gets as cool as it should? Do you have a huge, window air conditioner that is noisy and blocks the view? Is the upstairs of your home difficult to cool? An answer to all those problems can come from installing ductless mini-split air conditioning.

Ductless mini splits have been gaining in popularity. They have been in use for years in Japan, where land and outside space is limited for large heat pumps or central-air units. Mini splits are compact, efficient and do not use ducts to deliver cool air.
Ductless mini splits consist of two components: an inside air-handling unit and a compact outdoor compressor and condenser. The interior part is generally mounted on a wall where it will generate the best cooling. The outside section can be placed up to 50 feet away from the inside section. The two components are connected by a simple 3-inch opening through the wall.

The ductless mini-split air conditioning system is sized for the area to be cooled. Smaller spaces will require fewer BTU’s than larger areas. Sizing the unit assures the best efficiency by not using more power than is needed.

They offer great flexibility in adapting to different room and home situations. Some systems are capable of using only one outside component to handle up to four inside units which can be run independently with their own thermostat. Other options include units which can be ceiling or wall-mounted, and floor models are also available.

If you would like an different option to the noise of a window unit or you have rooms that are never cool enough, contact us at Action Air. We can give you all the details on this great cooling system.

Trying to Get Air to a New Space? Ductless Options Can Help

2011-04-18T13:39:00.000-07:00

Additions to your home can be difficult to heat and cool. Spaces with hydronic systems, radiant panels, or a bonus room over a garage, can also prove tricky. Ductless heating and cooling is a good option to get airflow to spaces like this. Maybe your existing system does not accommodate certain rooms or additions, or maybe it’s just not possible to install ducts where you need them. In these circumstances, ductless heating and cooling is versatile and practical.
Ductless heating and cooling systems are called mini-splits. Their biggest advantage is their small size, which allows them to heat or cool specific zones. You can purchase a single unit, or a model that has as many as four units that allows you to heat or cool four different zones. Each zone has its own thermostat, so you can adjust each as needed or keep them off if no one is using the space. This makes for great savings because you aren’t using energy you don’t need.

Mini-splits are easy to install. They consist of two units, an indoor air-handler and an outdoor compressor/condenser. The two are linked by a conduit through the wall, which in some models can be up to 50 feet long, giving you a great deal of space to place your units where you need them.

Another advantage of ductless heating and cooling systems is that they can be installed any place a small, 3-inch hole can be made in the wall. They can even be hung in the corner near the ceiling. Most models run very quietly, and many even operate by remote and filter the air as they heat or cool it.

Most mini-split systems are either a heat pump or an air conditioner model. Heat pumps are a good choice for climates that experience both warm and cool weather, since they have the ability to pump heat both into and out of a small space. Mini-split air conditioners work well for consistently warmer temperatures like ours.

Call Action Air to discuss which ductless option is right for you! We’re happy to help!

Programmable Thermostat Features You’ll Like (Hint: They Go Way Beyond Temperature Settings)

2011-04-17T17:02:00.000-07:00

Programmable thermostats offer many features that go beyond temperature control to offer convenience, comfort and more. One impressive feature is energy savings. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, using the right thermostat and programming it correctly could save you up to $180 a year!

Various models offer different features which complement weekly schedules. There are three common models:

■7 day models are the most flexible, allowing you to program different settings for morning, afternoon, evening and night for each day of the week.

■5+ 2 day models are a good choice for people keeping one schedule Monday-Friday, and another on Saturday and Sunday.

■5-1-1 day models have three programmable “slots,” one for the work week, a second for Saturdays, and a third for Sundays.

Remote access allows for zone temperature control. Sensors are placed in individual rooms or zones throughout the house, and connected to the main unit. If you want your bedroom warm in the morning, you can set the temperature to rise when you wake up in that specific location. You can also keep children’s rooms from becoming too cold without giving the children access to the controls. Some remote access models even allow you to adjust settings by phone or internet before you get home.

Programmable thermostats make keeping comfortable convenient. Action Air will be glad to help you decide which features suit your lifestyle to offer the maximum control, versatility and energy savings!

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.

Federal Tax Credits Still On For Energy Efficient Systems

2011-04-16T16:53:00.000-07:00

Lots of homeowners took advantage of the generous federal tax credits offered for heating and air conditioning systems in 2010. Those credits have been reduced, but you can still see some tax benefit if you are considering an upgrade in your heating and cooling systems. Now is the time to think about installing new air conditioning or an air-source heat pump.

Here’s what you need to know about the federal tax credits for these types of equipment:

■The credit is good for 10 percent of the cost up to $500, or a specified amount between $50 and $300. Action Air can help you determine which models qualify.

■The equipment must be purchased and installed before the end of 2011.

■The tax credit can only be claimed for your principal residence and the equipment must be installed in an existing home.

■Second homes, rental properties, and new construction are not eligible.

Air source heat pumps are an energy-efficient home comfort solution that provides both heating and cooling.They work by moving heat, rather than generating heat, so they consume much less energy than a furnace or conventional air conditioner. The professionals at Action Air have years of experience installing air source heat pumps in northeast Florida, so we know which models work best for different situations.

If you are looking to install a new central air conditioning system, we can help you with that, too. There are countless numbers of models available, but not all of them are eligible for federal tax credits. The best way to determine the right unit for your home is to work with a professional to make sure the equipment you purchase is not too large or too small for your home comfort needs. Contact us at Action Air to learn more about which energy-efficient air conditioners are available.

Schedule time with us now, before your home gets hot and uncomfortable, and you will not miss out on this year’s federal tax credits.

The Value of Quality Installation & Maintenance

2011-04-10T15:25:00.000-07:00

These days the internet has become a very valuable tool for price comparing when considering purchases, especially major purchases. Everyone uses it. However, if you are considering a new heating and cooling system you need to consider more than just what the best price is and who carries the top brand. The largest factors when buying a heating and cooling system are the installation and maintenance.

Industry research shows that 90% of the value you receive is tied directly to installation and maintenance. The evaluation, installation and maintenance of your system have a greater impact on your wallet and overall comfort than the equipment itself! It is important to make sure it is installed properly, by a reputable company, and maintained to keep it working properly long after you buy it.

A properly installed heating and cooling system starts with a qualified technician performing a load calculation on your home prior to system selection. This calculation is necessary to insure that you get the correct size system to meet the needs of your home. A unit that is too big (oversized) may have a higher upfront cost, raise your utility costs, remove less humidity and fail more quickly. A unit that is too small will have to work harder to heat and cool your home and will most likely fail prematurely as well. A load calculation takes into consideration factors such as, the square footage of usable space in your home, the number of windows, types of windows, insulation amounts, the direction your home is facing and along with many other factors.

Another major factor in insuring that your system in installed correctly is to hire a reputable, trained technician. A professional service technician will know that your ducts need to be checked before installing a new HVAC system. If the ducts are too small they will cause your HVAC system to use more energy and will deliver less comfort. Too small of ducts will lead to early equipment failure as well. A trained technician will also know to measure and document your airflow, to measure refrigerant charge, to ensure that your unit is safe electrically, to test the firing rate on a new furnace or boiler and to test your thermostat to ensure it is compatible with the new equipment.

By choosing a reputable HVAC company for installation they should be able to provide you with a copy of the installation checklist with a record of all measurements taken during installation, as well as provide a copy of the owner’s manual, manufacturer’s warranty and their warranty. Along with this you should get a list of recommended maintenance requirements. Maintenance is key to keeping your system working at peak performance. Many people don’t think that they need to maintain newly installed equipment. Not only is this necessary to keep your warranty in effect (most equipment manufacturers will state in the terms of their warranty that an annual maintenance must be performed by a qualified technician), but also to assure that your new equipment is operating safely and at its peak efficiency.

There is nothing better for your heating and/or air conditioning system than annual maintenance. Annual maintenance allows your system to continue to work at peak efficiency year in and year out. A system that is maintained annually experiences considerably fewer breakdowns and costly repairs along with using less energy. You’ll enjoy the peace of mind in knowing that your system is saving you money on your utility bills every time it comes on. In some instances, the energy savings are enough to pay the cost of the planned annual maintenance service.

So, when you’re in the market for a major purchase like a new heating & cooling system to maximize your home comfort do your research and pick a reputable, experienced HVAC company. Leave the internet to products that do not rely on the value of installation and maintenance!

Warranties vs. Maintenance

2011-04-02T09:33:00.000-07:00

In the HVAC (heating, cooling & ventilation) industry, we often hear the comments, ”We don’t need planned maintenance, we’re still under warranty.” Nothing could be further from the truth!

Manufacturers, to help compensate for problems caused by manufacturing defects, provide warranties on new equipment. If a piece of equipment fails during the warranty period and if the manufacturer accepts that the failure was not caused by outside influence (through improper use or lack of routine maintenance procedures), then they will generally provide a replacement part, free of charge. Equipment manufacturers don’t typically cover labor and the necessary materials needed to replace a failed/ broken part, however, at Action Air, we cover parts and labor for the first year on all repairs made and all systems we install.

In some cases, if a manufacturer determines that a lack of routine maintenance has contributed to the failure of equipment then the warranty coverage can be revoked leaving the homeowner to accept the full cost of repair.

Planned Maintenance inspections are important to not only keep your warranty valid, but also to keep your heating & cooling system working efficiently and safely. Most of us think that after we’ve bought our heating and cooling system, we’re done. We put out the money to pay for this expensive equipment (the most expensive equipment in most homes!) and we expect it to work, without any more effort.

I doubt that any of us would think the same of our cars. We know that our cars require regular maintenance if we want them to keep performing day after day. If you were to stop all maintenance on your car it would eventually seize up and quit working. The same applies to your heating and cooling system, which without regular maintenance will eventually breakdown or fail in approximately 2-3 years. After spending a bunch of money on a HVAC system no one wants to turn around and have to shell out this same money 2-3 years down the road. Your heating and cooling equipment, like your car requires regular maintenance.

Looking back at our records, we were able to determine that 50% of our repair calls could have been avoided by regular maintenance. By having a yearly tune-up on your system, you can avoid much more expensive repairs.

During a typical tune-up, your technician will have a long list of checks that they perform on your heating & cooling system. These checks enable the technician to catch things like a loose electrical connection or parts with visible wear. These problems caught at the time of a tune-up can easily be fixed and will help avoid costly repairs later.

Lack of maintenance will lead to dirt and dust build-up in your system as well. According to Energy Star, a division of the EPA, “Dirt and neglect are the #1 causes of heating and cooling system failure.” This build-up will cause your system to run harder and longer and greatly decreases its efficiency. As your system works harder to beat the heat or cold, your monthly utility bills will increase.

Lack of maintenance on your heating & cooling system can also lead to safety issues. During a tune-up all of the electrical connections are examined, and the unit disconnect switch along with all of the safety devices are checked. If you do not have your system checked out annually you could be running a serious safety risk and not even be aware of it.

As with our cars, we realize that if we don’t do regular maintenance, like oil changes and tune-ups, we will void our warranties. If something major goes wrong with our car we won’t be able to go into the dealership and have it fixed under warranty. Well, the same goes for your heating and cooling system. Most appliances have a 5-10 year warranty, and if you don’t maintain the equipment and something goes wrong, you’re out of luck and the warranty will be void. You’ll end up spending a large amount of money to fix it or even replace equipment that would have been covered under warranty, had you kept up with maintenance.

A lack of maintenance leads to repairs and early equipment failure, inefficiency, higher utility bills and an overall decrease in the system’s ability to keep your home comfortable, not to mention, invalidating your warranty and creating an unsafe environment in your home. When you look at all of this, the cost of a yearly tune-up is cheap in comparison!

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.

Why You Shouldn’t “Super” Size Your New Heating & Cooling

2011-04-01T17:54:00.000-07:00

Don’t pay too much for Your Heating & Cooling System

If you are in the market to replace older, inefficient heating and cooling system with new energy efficient ones, an understanding of the critical importance of sizing the system correctly is needed. The correct size of heating and cooling equipment in your home will improve your comfort while reducing costs, maintenance and energy usage.

To give you some history, homes were not as tightly constructed in the past as they are today and it was not uncommon to install furnaces and air conditioners that were two to four times the necessary capacity. Now most people have added new windows, caulking, weather-stripping, and insulation to their homes. Making improvements such as these to reduce heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer allows you to install a much smaller system while still being comfortable and saving on your monthly utility bills.

The most common mistake made in new heating and cooling systems is oversizing. This will make the new system not only more expensive to buy and install, but also forces it to operate inefficiently. An oversized system will also breakdown more often and cost more to operate. Oversized heating equipment creates uncomfortable and large temperature swings. Oversized air conditioners (and heat pumps) do not run long enough to dehumidify the air, which results in the air feeling “clammy” and the potential for unhealthy mold growth in your home.

Oversized equipment experiences frequent starts and stops (known as “short cycling”) will accelerate the wear and tear on the equipment, which can lead to premature failure. Oversized equipment also uses more fan power for the blower, which often leads to duct leakage due to higher operating duct pressures.

On the other side, undersized equipment, with airflow that is too low, can reduce the efficiency of the air distribution and accelerate wear on the system components, leading to earlier failure. Basically, your system will be working longer and harder to keep up with your comfort demands. Your system will have to run constantly and will wear itself out at a quicker rate.

A home “load calculation” is critical when homeowners are looking for a new heating and cooling system. This is basically a list of factors that determine what size system you need. A good contractor/technician will look at things such as, wall measurements, floor space, windows, R-value of home’s insulation, overall square footage of livable space, etc. A close estimate of a building’s air leakage is also necessary. This estimate should also include an inspection of the size, condition of seals on joints and insulation and location of distribution ducts in a forced air system.

Beware of a contractor/technician who only checks the “nameplate” (the label listing BTU’s) of the existing unit and tries to sell you one just like it or even worse, one that’s larger. This is not the correct way to size equipment and is not in your best interest. Another method includes using simple “rule of thumb”. They may base the size of your home on similar homes like it, using a chart that takes into account a variety of factors. This method can be used for a first estimate, but should not be used to size the actual system. You should include a requirement to produce a written sizing calculation when negotiating with your heating and cooling contractor/technician.

So remember when you are looking to buy a new heating and/or cooling system correctly sizing of your system will directly affect the comfort level in your home, as well as the long-term life of the system and overall cost to you. Pick the right size and skip the super-size!

Sources: http://www.energy.gov/ http://www.energystar.gov/ http://www.hgtvpro.com/ http://www.energysavers.gov/

Times Have Changed – What You Might Be Missing!

2011-03-27T10:20:00.001-07:00

If you have an older heating and cooling system, you need to be aware of all of the changes that have occurred over the last 20 years. We have seen a true revolution in heating and cooling equipment. Today’s technology is over two times as efficient (SEER), has advanced humidity control along with sophisticated temperature controls, provides built-in air purification options and has the ability to program and monitor your system from a remote location. If you haven’t kept up, here’s what you’re missing …

1.SEER
In the 1990s the DOE (Department of Energy) mandated a minimum SEER rate of 10 for all new air conditioners sold in the United States. Since January 23, 2006, all air conditioners manufactured in the United States now must have a Seer of 13 or higher.

If you have a 10 SEER air conditioning system from 20 years ago, you can upgrade to a 16 SEER and experience a 50% savings in your monthly cooling costs. That’s a huge savings! The efficiencies of heating and cooling equipment have greatly increased and with these energy savings, if you are considering replacement of old equipment, you will experience a much quicker payback on your equipment.

2.Heat or Humidity?
What makes you feel hot – is it the heat or the humidity? I remember last summer sitting by the pool with friends and one of them said, “You know it wouldn’t be so bad out here if it weren’t so humid.” Heat and humidity are a very uncomfortable combination, however, it’s humidity that most affects your body’s ability to cool itself. Your body is cooled when you sweat and the sweat evaporates off of your body. When the concentration of water vapor in the air, or humidity, is high it affects the potential for evaporative cooling. Basically, there is too much moisture in the air and the sweat on your body can’t evaporate.

Twenty years ago if you wanted to add or take away humidity from your home you could have purchased a room humidifier/dehumidifier and it would have done an adequate job for a small area. Current heating and cooling systems have integrated humidifier and dehumidifier options. You can now control the humidity in your whole home and by controlling humidity levels you can greatly increase the comfort of your home. In the summer, by decreasing the level of humidity in your home, you will even be able to turn down the air conditioning, as it will feel cooler in your home. Turning down the air conditioning means lower utility bills for you!

3.Digital Thermostats
Today's electronic models are a vast departure from earlier mechanical styles, which basically allowed you to set and adjust temperatures manually. Digital thermostats offer more accuracy than ever before - perfect temperature control within 1º F. The new digital thermostats have microprocessors that allow you to program your home temperatures to suit your lifestyle, so you can keep things comfortable while you're home and automatically set back temperatures to save energy when you're away or sleeping.

Did you know that properly using a digital programmable thermostat in your home is one of the easiest ways you can save energy, money, and help fight global warming? (http://www.energystar.gov) A programmable thermostat helps make it easy for you to save by regulating your home's temperature in both summer and winter - when you are asleep or away. The settings that come with programmable thermostats are intended to deliver savings without sacrificing comfort. Depending on your family's schedule, you can see significant savings by sticking with those settings or adjust them as appropriate for your family.

Unlike the older, mechanical thermostats, a digital room thermostat also offers users a large LCD screen for easy reading. This is especially beneficial for older people or those with poor eyesight, as the older mechanical thermostats of the past are very difficult to read.

4.Remote Access
Remote Access is a major innovation in heating and cooling. We have nothing to compare it to 20 years ago. Systems with this feature allow homeowners to monitor the components and get system status feedback. It can also halt the system when a major problem is detected.

Another benefit of Remote Access is the ability for homeowners to adjust temperatures when they are away from home. This is a great feature for those individuals that travel a lot for work or for those on vacation. Remote Access gives homeowners peace of mind, knowing that when you are away from home everything is functioning, as it should. This feature saves homeowners money, by adjusting temperatures while away and resuming them to a comfortable level prior to returning home. So that you’re not heating or cooling your home when you are not there.

5.Built-in air purification
Twenty years ago air quality was not recognized as an important issue like it is today. The products on the market were for single room air purifiers. Today indoor air quality has become a major issue in our lives. According to the EPA (http://www.epa.gov/iaq/pubs/insidest.html), “In the last several years, a growing body of scientific evidence has indicated that the air within homes and other buildings can be more seriously polluted than the outdoor air in even the largest and most industrialized cities. Other research indicates that people spend approximately 90 percent of their time indoors. Thus, for many people, the risks to health may be greater due to exposure to air pollution indoors than outdoors.”

The HVAC (heating, cooling and ventilation) industry has responded to these concerns and many products available on the market today help with poor air quality problems. You can add whole home air purifiers and air cleaners to your heating and cooling system. So now instead of merely cleaning the air in one room, your HVAC system is providing clean air to your entire home.

The heating and cooling industry has come a long way in 20 years. The innovations that have occurred during this time are allowing homeowners to conserve energy, lower utility costs, and increase overall comfort and convenience. If you are still living in the dark ages with a 15-20 year old heating and cooling system now is a great time to upgrade and reap the many benefits!

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.

Three HVAC Terms Every Florida Homeowner Should Know

2011-03-26T04:52:00.000-07:00

When it comes to HVAC know-how, there are a lot of terms and information out there. That’s why technicians receive years of training! For the average Florida homeowner, it’s not possible or practical to retain all this knowledge. There are, however, some terms consumers can greatly benefit from understanding. Action Air has three HVAC terms that can help every Florida homeowner get the best equipment, the best service, and the best savings: SEER, MERV and NATE.

SEER

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. It measures the efficiency of air conditioners based on how much energy they consume and how much cool air they produce. Units with a high SEER get more “miles per gallon” than units with a low SEER. A low SEER would be around the number 8 or 12. High efficiency units can get up to 19.5 SEER or even higher, meaning that the air conditioner uses very little electricity to produce a high quantity of cooled air.

MERV

MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value. This measures the effectiveness of air filters. The higher the rating, the more airborne particles they trap. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends using a filter with a MERV 13, reported to trap irritants and allergens that travel through the air in our homes.

However, don’t run out for a high MERV filter without matching it to your system. Higher MERVs are more restrictive, which could lead to inhibited airflow in your system and, possibly, a system malfunctions. Check with the technician who provides your routing A/C maintenance for the best filter possible for your system.

NATE

NATE stands for North American Technician Excellence. NATE is a national non-profit organization that tests and certifies technicians in areas of the HVAC industry. Some areas of testing include air conditioning, heat pumps, air distribution. The work of NATE certified technicians is up to national standards and ensures you won’t play a guessing game with your contractor. NATE certified technicians deliver quality installation and expert service.

Knowing these three simple terms can help save you money by allowing you to make an educated choice when deciding on the right equipment and the right contractor. Call Action Air for further HVAC information. We’ll be happy to answer your questions!

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 Heat Is Coming: Air Conditioning Maintenance Tips

2011-03-25T18:32:00.000-07:00

Proper air conditioning maintenance can not only help keep you cool in the hot Norteast Florida summers, it can also save you money. Cooling equipment that is regularly maintained is less likely to break down and it runs more efficiently, keeping your monthly utility bills low.
The key to staying cool all summer long is servicing your equipment before the summer heat hits. That way, you won’t have interruptions in service and you can avoid costly repairs. Annual pre-season air conditioner maintenance should include the following activities:

■Adjust thermostat settings – as the the seasons change, your indoor air temperature preferences will change too.

■Inspect and clean the condensate drain – a blockage here can increase indoor humidity levels, or worse, cause water damage.

■Clean evaporator and condensing coils – dirty coils reduce energy efficiency and make your equipment work harder, shortening its life span.

■Check the refrigerant level - improper levels decrease energy efficiency. If necessary, make adjustments according to manufacturer specifications.

■Clean the blower – restricted air flow will cause unnecessary decreases in efficiency and will negatively impact your home comfort.
On a monthly basis, check air filters and change them, if necessary. In addition to build-up of dust and other particles, a dirty air filter will restrict air flow and potentially damage your heating and cooling equipment.

The best way to be sure your regular air conditioning maintenance is done properly is to have your equipment semi-annually serviced by a professional. In addition to the peace of mind this provides, you can enjoy the other benefits of an annual maintenance contract, such as discounts on parts and labor, priority scheduling, and transferrable agreements.

Action Air provides both semi-annual air conditioning maintenance agreements and single service calls, but regardless of which option you choose, now is the time schedule routine maintenance. The hot summers in Northeast Florida keep us busy with emergency calls. You don’t want to find yourself waiting in the heat for a repair that could have been prevented with some simple pre-season maintenance procedures.

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.

Keep Air Conditioning Coils Clean And Running Efficiently

2011-03-24T17:58:00.000-07:00

The vents and switches on air conditioning systems are the items we see the most, but homeowners should never underestimate the importance of the coils. Keeping them clean can be one of the best ways to maximize the efficiency of your system. Regardless of the type of unit your home has, regular service and necessary upgrades not only increase comfort levels, but also will markedly reduce your energy bill.
Here are some ways to ensure that your A/C system stays healthy and operational :

■Dust and dirt will build up on coils over time and can cause problems if left unattended. So it’s crucial to regularly have both an indoor and outdoor coil cleaning professionally done. This insures that your A/C unit continues to operate at peak efficiency.
■Additionally, air filters should be replaced or cleaned at least twice a year. If you’re a cat or dog owner, you may need to do this more frequently.
If you fail to keep the coils clean and dust and dirt do build up, the heat transfer in the condenser coil can become so blocked that it does not cool enough to convert the hot gas back to liquid form. When this occurs, the A/C unit continues to run,, but does not cool. Then it becomes a domino effect of sorts – the compressor will overheat and eventually die. So keeping the coils clean and properly functioning is a key component in making sure your air conditioner is doing its job to the best of its ability. Here at Action Air, we can help by providing a professional, thorough coil cleaning.

By keeping up with preventive maintenance on your system, you can trust that our skilled technicians can remedy any potential hazards before permanent damage occurs. At Action Air, we take pride in providing Northeast Florida with the highest caliber of dependable professional service. Please call us with questions about A/C coils or any other home comfort need.

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.

Why are SEER Ratings Important?

2011-03-19T02:25:00.001-07:00

You may have heard about SEER ratings. Today, we’ll go over what these ratings mean and why they matter. SEER is all about efficiency, so anyone installing a new A/C system or replacing an old one should know what their new unit’s SEER rating is. It affects your energy costs in the long term, as well as the performance of your cooling system. In a hot, humid climate like ours, this is especially relevant. Air conditioners here have to work hard to keep homeowners comfortable, so energy efficiency is pretty important.

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. The U.S. Department of Energy established this designation to educate consumers about the energy efficiency of air conditioning units. SEER is the ratio between the cooling of the unit over one season and the total energy it consumes during that same period. So, the figure measures the overall efficiency of the unit over an entire cooling season.

The higher the SEER rating, the higher the efficiency of the unit. For you, a higher SEER means lower energy costs each month. So, although these high SEER systems cost more up front to buy, they usually pay for themselves in energy savings within a few years.

This chart shows how much you can save if you upgrade to a high efficiency A/C system. For example, your cost to operate the A/C would drop from $100 to $39 if you went from an 8 SEER system to an 18 SEER system. That adds up to a 40% reduction in energy costs. Other variables affect your total savings, such as lifestyle, maintenance and how you operate your system, so be sure to contact us if you’re thinking of installing a new A/C system. Only a professional can tell you which one is right for your home based on all the factors involved.

In January of 2006, Federal minimum efficiency standards for air conditioning units changed. Now, all new A/C units must be at least 13 SEER, and if you’re purchasing an Energy Star unit, you’ll get an even higher rating. The minimum SEER for these models is 14. If you have an existing low-SEER unit, you may continue to use it until it needs to be replaced. However, when the time comes to get a new system, only 13 SEER or higher models will be available to you.

So, know your SEER rating! It will make a big difference in your monthly energy bills and could save you hundreds of dollars over the life of the unit.

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.

A Look At The Essential Benefits Of Annual Maintenance

2011-03-16T14:20:00.000-07:00

Proper care and attention to heating and cooling systems within your home is essential for your comfort. Preventive maintenance is important not only for the life of the equipment itself, but also for saving energy. This ultimately translates into money saved.
There are other benefits to preventive maintenance, including extending the life and performance of the equipment. You, the homeowner, will save energy, time and money. It’s a win-win situation.

What kinds of things should you look at when doing preventive maintenance?

Filters
You’ll want to include the filters on your heating and cooling equipment in any preventive maintenance. These should generally be checked every three months or so and changed when dirty. Filters help protect the inner workings of equipment, and, without them, dirt can get into the system and clog coils.

Duct Cleaning

Cleaning out dirt and debris from air ducts can also be helpful. This prevents dust from working its way through your house, but will also protect your heating and cooling equipment. There is some debate over whether duct cleaning is truly necessary, but, as recommended by the EPA, if ducts visibly contain mold, excessive dust or vermin activity, it is highly recommend that they be cleaned. In the case of fiberglass or flexible ductwork, replacing it may be your better option.

Sealing

One of the most effective things that can be done to improve energy efficiency and comfort is to seal the home. This means looking at the outer “envelope” of the home: the doors, windows, ceilings and floors.

Caulk, foam spray or weather stripping can be used around windows and doors. Adding insulation to the attic is one of the most effective ways to seal a home. Finally, an average of 20 percent of air that moves through the ducts is typically lost to leaks. Sealing ducts can greatly improve the operating efficiency of heating and cooling systems.

Preventive maintenance, looking at filters, ducts and sealing, is a must for every homeowner annually.
Of course, the benefit of priority emergency service speaks for itself. Ask anyone who has lost A/C on a sweltering Northeast Florida day! Contact us about the benefits of a maintenance service agreement for your home. We can help you get better performance for fewer energy dollars, and enjoy ideal home comfort year-round.

Discounts, Emergency Service Another Bonus of Maintenance Service Agreements

2011-02-05T16:04:00.000-08:00

If you’re like most homeowners, you’re looking for ways to cut costs and eliminate expenses. Keeping a home running smoothly is not cheap, and especially in this economy, you don’t want to throw money away. Some expenses, however, are worth the monetary investment. At Action Air, we strongly believe that a maintenance service agreement is one of those expenses.
A service agreement for your heating and cooling systems offers many benefits, including emergency service and discounts on parts and labor. Of course, the biggest benefit is regularly scheduled preventative maintenance for your system components. We encourage our customers to sign up for annual maintenance because we feel that it’s one of the most important things they can do to ensure efficient home comfort over time.

The fact is, the cost of annual maintenance is often offset or even exceeded by the savings to homeowners in the form of reduced energy costs, discounts, fewer breakdowns and longer equipment life. With these incentives, the cost of a service agreement can be met or even exceeded by savings!

A maintenance service agreement provides:

■15 percent discount on parts and labor
■Priority service
■Transferable to new owners
■24-hour emergency service
■Improved system efficiency
■Extended equipment life

Discounts alone can help pay for the cost of a maintenance service agreement over time, adding to the benefit of having one in place. And, when you have your HVAC system professionally maintained, you’ll get the longest life and most efficient operation out of your heating and cooling equipment. This equals big savings on your energy bill and helps you avoid costly repairs and system failure– another cost savings over time.

Of course, the benefit of priority emergency service speaks for itself. Ask anyone who has lost A/C on a sweltering Northeast Florida day! Contact us about the benefits of a maintenance service agreement for your home. We can help you get better performance for fewer energy dollars, and enjoy ideal home comfort year-round.

7 Warning Signs: When To Call For Air Conditioning Service

2011-01-31T18:03:00.000-08:00

On a hot day, homeowners rely on the cool air from their air conditioning system for relief from the heat. But what happens when you turn on your air conditioning system and discover it’s broken? An air conditioning system that isn’t working properly can be irritating, and unfortunately your home can become unbearably hot.
It’s also important to understand that problems with your air conditioning system can be more than just annoying, they can be costly. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, heating and cooling costs are the largest home energy expense, with the heating and cooling system contributing about 56% of a home’s energy use. Considering this report, it’s easy to see why early preventative maintenance and air conditioning service is a must.

Because your comfort and your pocketbook are affected by an air conditioning system in need of repair, it is important to seek professional air conditioning service when you notice any one of these seven signs.

■A reduction in cooling performance
■The air conditioner runs almost continuously, even when cooling needs are low
■Unusual or excessive noises coming from either the indoor or outdoor cooling unit
■Your air conditioning unit turns on and off frequently, or the electrical circuit breaker and fuses continually short out
■The amount of air flow coming from your air conditioning vents is decreasing
■There is water leaking from your air conditioner or ice is forming on the unit
■You air conditioner is leaking refrigerant
Small problems with your air conditioning unit are easy to ignore, but ignoring these warning signs is the last thing you should do. When you encounter any of the problems listed, it’s time to in call professional air conditioning service.

Our certified techs will inspect and repair your air conditioning, and make any recommendations for its service, And, don’t forget to sign up for yearly preventative maintenance. It’s the best way to ensure that your A/C is always there for you when you need it.

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.

How your Heat Pump Cools your Home

2011-01-25T18:25:00.000-08:00

Heat pumps provide both heating and cooling, and offer an energy-efficient alternative to air conditioning units. Here in Northeast Florida, we primarily use our heat pumps during the hot summer months to provide cool, dry conditions inside our homes. Let’s go over how heat pumps work as air conditioners.
Like your refrigerator, heat pumps use electricity to move heat from a cool space into a warm place. During the heating season, heat pumps move heat from the cool outdoors into your warm house; during the cooling season, a heat pump moves heat from your cool house into the warm outdoors.

Your heat pump goes through the same evaporative cycle that a traditional central air conditioning system or refrigerator does. In fact, you can think of your refrigerator as a heat pump that is always in cooling mode. When in the cooling mode, your heat pump simply reverses from the heating cycle to transfer heat from the cooler air in your home to the hot outdoors. Here are the steps in the process:

1. The compressor pumps out high-pressure, hot refrigerant vapor.

2. The vapor leaves the compressor and passes through the reversing valve.

3. It flows through the outdoor vapor line to the finned outdoor coil. Air from the outdoor fan removes heat from the refrigerant vapor. When enough heat is removed, the vapor condenses into a high-pressure liquid. The liquid temperature is slightly warmer than ambient air temperature.

4. This warm, high-pressure liquid leaves the outdoor coil, and flows through the copper refrigerant liquid line.

5. At the end of the liquid line, the refrigerant passes through a metering device, reducing its pressure and temperature.

6. As the liquid, under reduced pressure, enters the indoor coil surface, it expands and absorbs heat from the indoor air passing over the finned surface. Heat from the indoor air causes the low-pressure liquid to evaporate and cools the indoor air. The refrigerant is now a cool vapor.

7. The refrigerant vapor travels through the insulated vapor line to the reversing valve. The reversing valve directs the refrigerant into the accumulator.

8. The accumulator controls liquid refrigerant and refrigerant oil flow back to the compressor.

9. Refrigerant vapor flows through the suction line to the compressor. The cycle then repeats.

Cool air is circulated through vents and ductwork, the same as with a central air conditioning system. The difference between a heat pump and an A/C system lies mainly in the consumption of energy and efficiency of operation. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, if you heat with electricity, a heat pump can reduce the amount of electricity you use by as much as 30%–40%.

Here in Florida, we rely on our heat pumps to keep us cool and provide heat in the winter. Fortunately, these systems are quiet, efficient, and low-maintenance units that provide reliable and economical cooling when the temperatures start to soar. Ask us about how you can get the best performance from your heat pump, and maximize your comfort and energy savings this summer.

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

How Efficient Is A Heat Pump?

2011-01-21T14:22:00.000-08:00

Heat pumps are making a comeback—and they are not only for heating anymore. For homeowners here in Northeast Florida that means using these pumps to cool their homes more efficiently and cost-effectively. Here at Action, we believe that a properly installed and maintained heat pump is an asset to your home, whether it is used to warm or cool your home.

Often located in the backyard, heat pumps transfer heat from a cool temperature source to one with a warmer temperature. Unlike a typical air conditioning system, heat pumps also provide heat. Studies show that today’s heat pumps are nearly twice as efficient as those manufactured 30 years ago. This increased efficiency is the result of scientific and technical improvements, including:

■More exact mastery of the refrigerant run out to the indoor coil;
■More effective variable speed blowers;
■Enhanced spiral and dual-speed compressor designs and electric motors; and
■Rigid copper tubing.

A heat pump’s effectiveness depends—in large part—on the type of pump you are using. Air-source heat pumps can put out up to three times the amount of “heat” energy than the “electrical” energy it uses. Even though these heat pumps work in most climates, they do not perform optimally in sub-zero conditions for any length of time. Here in hot, humid Northeast Florida, they are an ideal solution.

Heat pumps featuring a variable-speed blower are known to use less power and offer a more comfortable environment. They also are not as noisy and distribute heat more consistently with little temperature variation.

To maximize efficiency, homeowners should learn how to regulate the pump’s thermostat. Excessively high temperatures reduce the benefits and lower temperatures may put stress on the equipment.

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

How Bad Is The Air In Your Home?

2011-01-20T16:57:00.000-08:00

Indoor air quality is not something most people worry about on a daily basis. However, there can be serious consequences to poor indoor air quality. Dirty air often contains toxins and mold spores that can lead to allergy symptoms and even illness in some cases. We highly recommend taking certain steps to maintaining quality indoor air.

One of the easiest ways to keep your indoor air quality high is to replace the filter on your home heating or cooling system frequently. If you have not changed the filter in the last six months, chances are the air in your home is becoming laden with dust and mold spores. We recommend having the filter replaced at least twice per year. If you have pets, you may need to change the filter even more frequently as dander and hair build up in the system.

Another way that homeowners can keep their air clean is by cleaning the evaporator coils of interior and exterior systems. This is a job that may require some professional assistance and should be done every 2 to 3 years. Also, watch for any ice buildup on the coils. This is a sign of serious malfunction and you should contact a professional immediately if you spot this.

Another common cause of low indoor air quality is an obstructed condenser. The condenser pulls air in around it to allow for heat transfer, and if objects are blocking it, air flow may be restricted. Keep any vegetation away from the condenser to avoid obstruction.

A lack of regular maintenance of your air conditioning and heating systems can easily lead to dirty air. If you haven’t performed these tasks in awhile, be sure to get started as soon as possible. For more information, go to HERE.

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

Losing Energy Because Of Leaky Ducts?

2011-01-16T18:25:00.000-08:00

You may have the most energy efficient heating and cooling equipment available, but you will still waste money if that heated or cooled air is leaking out of the duct system before it reaches the rooms in your house. Your home may also be less comfortable, with some rooms never becoming cooled or heated to the desired temperature.
Proper duct sealing and insulating can help reduce the loss of cooled air and energy through leaks, rips, tears, and holes. Don’t forget to look for kinks in the ductwork, as well. Check the attic and garage first, as these places are easiest to access. If duct sealing in those areas doesn’t fix the problem, it may be time to check crawl spaces and walls. Often overlooked are the spots where the ducts connect to the vent; connections can become loose here and cooled air will be lost.

Anyone who lives in southwest Florida knows how important it is to keep the house cool in summer. If you do not have proper duct sealing, rooms can become too hot or too cold, causing you to be uncomfortable in your own home. You may already be losing up to 20 percent of the air that passes through the ducts. Those dollars add up fast, especially when you have to run your system more frequently to reach the desired room temperature. There’s no reason to spend valuable money to heat your attic or crawl spaces. Make sure your air conditioning system is as efficient as possible by checking your ducts today.

If you’re not sure what to look for when checking your duct sealing, call us and we’ll look at all the seams and connections in the ducts. Blockages and leaks may not be easy to spot with an untrained eye, but that’s why we’re here to help!

Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).For more information about Programmable thermostats and other HVAC topics,click here to visit our

Programmable Thermostats Are One of Your Best Energy Saving Investments

2011-01-16T16:26:00.000-08:00

Programmable thermostats can significantly save energy and affect heating and cooling costs. Throughout the year, it’s possible to save roughly 10 percent on your energy costs vs. a manual-setting model.

Options
The most basic models come with four pre-programmed settings. Here’s one example of a possible setting for temperatures in the winter:

Time Temperature

6:30 AM 75

8:00 AM 70

5:00 PM 75

10:30 PM 70

When setting a schedule for the thermostat, consider what time your family wakes up, goes to school or work, participates in activities and goes to bed. The thermostat can be changed at any time using the manual override to adjust the cooling or heat if schedules deviate from the original settings.

Installation
It’s important to remember that the location of programmable thermostats will affect performance. It should not be in direct sunlight (from a window or skylight), in the line of drafts or near doorways.

Features
Some of the more elaborate models have some really useful features, such a voice and phone activation, vacation settings, and a notice when the filter needs changed. There are also a few options for setting programmable thermostats.

1. Set each day differently.

2. Set the weekdays the same and the weekends differently.

3. Set the weekdays the same and both weekend days differently.

There are lots of choices available for the technically savvy. If you’re not a tech whiz, a heating and cooling professional can walk you through the process. Once the settings are established, you won’t have to tinker much with the thermostat. While these features are enticing, the bottom line is that a programmable thermostat will save money on heating and cooling costs. And that’s one of the best energy saving options to invest in today.

Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).For more information about Programmable thermostats and other HVAC topics,click here to visit our we

Mold, Moisture and Your Home

2010-10-16T03:50:00.000-07:00

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

Reducing Mold with UV Light

2010-10-10T04:40:00.000-07:00

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.

Calculating your Electricity Use

2010-10-10T04:31:00.000-07:00

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.

Tips for Saving Money when Using Appliances and Home Electronics

2010-10-09T03:50:00.000-07:00

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.

Improving the Energy-Efficiency of Existing Windows

2010-10-05T03:13:00.000-07:00

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.

How Air Cleaners Improve Indoor Air Quality

2010-10-02T03:39:00.000-07:00

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.

The Whole-House Approach to HVAC Systems

2010-10-02T03:32:00.000-07:00

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.

2-Stage Air Conditioners Offer Efficient Comfort

2010-09-25T04:11:00.000-07:00

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.

Indoor Air Quality and Your Business: What You Should Know

2010-09-25T03:44:00.000-07:00

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.

Tightly Sealed Homes Need Proper Ventilation

2010-06-19T16:15:00.000-07:00

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.

Make Sure your System is Installed Correctly

2010-06-16T16:02:00.000-07:00

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.

Replacing your Existing Heat Pump

2010-06-16T15:51:00.000-07:00

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.

What Can A Whole House Dehumidifier Do For You?

2010-06-12T15:07:00.000-07:00

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

2010-06-12T15:02:00.000-07:00

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.

How an Energy Efficient Landscape Can Save You Money

2010-06-10T18:09:00.000-07:00

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?

2010-06-10T18:06:00.001-07:00

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.

How Does Humidity Affect You and Your Home

2010-06-09T18:58:00.000-07:00

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

2010-06-09T18:09:00.000-07:00

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.

Is it Time for an HVAC Equipment Upgrade? Here’s what you Need to Know

2010-06-06T08:00:00.000-07:00

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.

Energy Strategy for the Future

2010-06-05T14:05:00.000-07:00

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?

10 Tips for Hiring a Heating and Cooling Contractor

2010-06-03T17:56:00.000-07:00

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).

Ask about Proper Installation of your new equipment

2010-06-01T15:25:00.000-07:00

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.

HVAC Tax Credits (2009 Stimulus)

2010-05-31T14:03:00.000-07:00

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

Always be Polite

2010-05-30T09:03:00.000-07:00

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.

Why should I replace my existing heating or air-conditioning system?

2010-05-29T16:02:00.001-07:00

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.

Air-Source Heat Pumps

2010-05-28T09:22:00.000-07:00

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.

Weatherization Assistance Program

2010-05-27T05:50:00.000-07:00

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.

Exploring Ways to Use Solar Energy

2010-05-25T12:49:00.000-07:00

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.

Simple No-Cost and Low-Cost Tips to Save Energy This Summer

2010-05-08T03:58:00.000-07:00

No-Cost and Low-Cost Tips to Save Energy This Summer

Here you'll find strategies to help you save energy during the spring and summer when the weather is warm and you are trying to keep your home cool. Some of the tips below are free and can be used on a daily basis to increase your savings; others are simple and inexpensive actions you can take to ensure maximum savings through the spring and summer.

If you haven't already, conduct an energy assessment to find out where you can save the most, and consider making a larger investment for long-term energy savings.

Also check out no-cost and low-cost tips to save energy during the winter.

Use Your Windows to Gain Cool Air and Keep Out Heat

If you live in a climate where it cools off at night, turn off your cooling system and open your windows while sleeping. When you wake in the morning, shut the windows and blinds to capture the cool air.

Install window coverings to prevent heat gain through your windows.
•Find out about window treatments and coverings that can improve energy efficiency.

Operate Your Thermostat Efficiently

Set your thermostat as high as comfortably possible in the summer. The smaller the difference between the indoor and outdoor temperatures, the lower your overall cooling bill will be.

Keep your house warmer than normal when you are away, and lower the thermostat setting to 78°F (26°C) only when you are at home and need cooling. A programmable thermostat can make it easy to set back your temperature.

•Find out how to operate your thermostat for maximum energy savings.
•Also see ENERGY STAR's June 5, 2008, podcast for video instructions on operating your programmable thermostat.

Avoid setting your thermostat at a colder setting than normal when you turn on your air conditioner. It will not cool your home any faster and could result in excessive cooling and unnecessary expense.

Use Fans and Ventilation Strategies to Cool Your Home

If you use air conditioning, a ceiling fan will allow you to raise the thermostat setting about 4°F with no reduction in comfort.

•Learn more about using a ceiling fan to increase cooling efficiency.
•Find ENERGY STAR ceiling fans.

Turn off ceiling fans when you leave the room. Remember that fans cool people, not rooms, by creating a wind chill effect.

When you shower or take a bath, use the bathroom fan to remove the heat and humidity from your home. Your laundry room might also benefit from spot ventilation. Make sure bathroom and kitchen fans are vented to the outside (not just to the attic).
•Find ENERGY STAR ventilating fans.

Keep Your Cooling System Running Efficiently

Schedule regular maintenance for your cooling equipment.
•Learn about operating and maintaining your air conditioner, evaporative cooler, or heat pump.
•Find guidelines on hiring a professional service for air conditioner maintenance.
Avoid placing lamps or TV sets near your room air-conditioning thermostat. The thermostat senses heat from these appliances, which can cause the air conditioner to run longer than necessary.

•Learn additional tips for operating a room air conditioner efficiently.
Vacuum registers regularly to remove any dust buildup. Ensure that furniture and other objects are not blocking the air flow through your registers.

Don't Heat Your Home with Appliances and Lighting

On hot days, avoid using the oven; cook on the stove, use a microwave oven, or grill outside.

Install efficient lighting that runs cooler. Only about 10%–15% of the electricity that incandescent lights consume results in light—the rest is turned into heat.

•Learn more about your options for efficient lighting.
•Find out when to turn off your lights.
•Purchase ENERGY STAR lighting products.
Take advantage of daylight instead of artificial lighting, but avoid direct sunlight.
•Learn more about strategies for efficient daylighting.
Wash only full loads of dishes and clothes. Consider air drying both dishes and clothing.
•Learn more about efficient dishwashing and laundry.
Take short showers instead of baths.
•Learn more ways to reduce your hot water use.
Minimize activities that generate a lot of heat, such as running a computer, burning open flames, running a dishwasher, and using hot devices such as curling irons or hair dryers. Even stereos and televisions will add some heat to your home.
•Learn more about avoiding heat buildup in your home

Keep Hot Air from Leaking Into Your Home

Seal cracks and openings to prevent warm air from leaking into your home.
•Learn more about air sealing new and existing homes.
Add caulk or weatherstripping to seal air leaks around leaky doors and windows.
•Find how to select and apply the appropriate caulk.
•Learn how to select and apply weatherstripping.
•Find out other ways to improve the energy efficiency of your windows.

Lower Your Water Heating Costs

Water heating can account for 14%-25% of the energy consumed in your home.

Turn down the temperature of your water heater to the warm setting (120°F). You'll not only save energy, you'll avoid scalding your hands.
•Find other strategies for energy-efficient water heating.

Energy Saving Tips

2010-05-06T16:57:00.001-07:00

When You Save Energy, You Save Money

Summer Tips

* Use ceiling fans to increase comfort level. Set your thermostat at 78 degrees or higher. For each degree you lower the temperature form the recommended setting, you can increase your bill up to 4%. GRU has HVAC system rebates available.
* Don't place lamps or TV sets near your air conditioner thermostat. The thermostat senses heat from these appliances, and causes the air conditioning to run longer than necessary using more energy.
* Plant trees or shrubs to shade air conditioning units but not to block the airflow. A unit operating in the shade uses as much as 10% less electricity than the same one operating in the sun.
* Install a programmable thermostat to adjust the temperature automatically and maximize energy savings. When cooling, try programming the thermostat to 82° while you are gone in the daytime and return it to 78° two hours before you get home.

Indoor Humidity - Moisture in the Home

2010-05-05T18:11:00.000-07:00

Indoor Humidity - Moisture in the Home

You know when your home's air is too hot or cold. That's because you feel uncomfortable. But the amount of moisture in your home's air also has an impact on the way you feel, plus it can have a major effect on your health.

Too Much Moisture

High moisture levels can make your home feel stuffy and create a breeding ground for mold, mildew, dust mites and bacteria. Recent studies have shown that mold can cause or worsen asthma, as well as hay fever and other allergies*.

Not Enough Moisture

Dry air makes furniture shrink, warp and crack. Plus, it causes skin irritation and respiratory problems,** not to mention annoying static shocks.

Optimal Humidity Range for Ideal Comfort and Indoor Air Quality

National studies and indoor air quality experts, indicate, that, for optimal comfort and health, your home's relative humidity levels should range between 35 and 50 percent.

For optimal comfort and health, studies show that moisture levels should be in the range of 35% to 50%. You can track your home's humidity with a hygrometer, available at hardware and home improvement stores.

Other Ways to Reduce Home HumidityReducing sources of moisture can reduce your need for dehumidification.

Improving the drainage around the foundation of your home may result in decreased humidity in your basement. Some ways to improve drainage are:
Extend downspouts from your gutters away from the foundation of your home
Keep gutters and downspouts clear and open
Ensure that the soil slopes away from your foundation, to avoid pooling of water around your home.

Avoid over-watering of foundation plantings
Ensure that clothes dryers are properly vented to the outdoors. If you do not use a clothes dryer, dry your clothes outdoors as opposed to hanging them inside for drying.
Use vent fans in bathrooms and kitchens to remove humidity at the source.
Repair leaking outdoor faucets. Not only will this help reduce humidity, but it will also save you money on your water bills!
If your home uses central air conditioning, consider installing an A/C vent in the humid space in your home and take advantage of the dehumidifying capabilities of your A/C system. This will also help with air circulation, improving airflow between humid parts of your home and drier parts.

About Your A/C

2010-05-04T19:30:00.000-07:00

About Your A/C
Central Air Conditioning
Central air conditioning helps keep your home cool and reduces humidity levels. By transferring heat from air located inside your home to the outside, conditioned and cooled air is left to be re-circulated. Using electricity as its power source, the compressor inside an air conditioning unit pumps coolant, or refrigerant, back and forth to gather heat and moisture from indoors. Warm air from inside is blown over the cooling coil, which is connected to the compressor, and then pumped back into your home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I troubleshoot before calling a dealer?

The answer is, "Yes." Here are some simple procedures you can perform before going to the expense of a service call:

■Check disconnect switches. (indoor and outdoor if you have a split system). Make sure that circuit breakers are ON or that fuses have not blown.
■Check for sufficient airflow. Make sure air filters are clean and that supply-air and return-air grilles are open and unobstructed.
■Check the settings on your thermostat. If you want cooling, make sure the temperature control selector is set below room temperature and the SYSTEM switch is on the COOL or AUTO position. If you want heat, make sure the temperature control selector is set above room temperature and the SYSTEM switch is at HEAT or AUTO. The FAN switch should be set at ON for continuous blower operation or AUTO if you want the blower to function only while the unit is operating.
Make sure your circuit breakers are in the ON position.
Make sure your filters are clean.

How long will my system last?

Maintenance and service play a key role in the lifecycle of an air conditioning system. If all recommended maintenance and service actions are taken, it is believed that an air conditioner should last about 10 years.

What is Freon R-22?

R-22 is the common name for hydro-chlorofluorocarbon (HCFC). R-22 has been used as a refrigerant by HVAC manufacturers for over 40 years, but studies in the past decade have shown that HCFCs contain chlorine, an ozone-depleting agent. For this reason, the United States Clean Air Act has set a target date for January 1, 2010, on which HVAC manufacturers must cease the production of products that use R-22.

What is R-410A?

R-410A is the common name for an emerging hydro-fluorocarbon (HFC) that is being used as a refrigerant in the HVAC industry. R-410A is more environmentally friendly than R-22 and is being seen as the most likely replacement for R-22 by HVAC manufacturers. At the beginning of 2010, the use of alternate refrigerant will be required in HVAC manufacturing.

Is there any advantage to setting my thermostat fan to "ON" so the fan runs constantly?
Yes, there are a couple. The first is that you get constant filtering of the air in your home. The second is that because the air is moving, you have a more even temperature throughout.

What is a S.E.E.R.(Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio)
rating and what does it mean to you?

S.E.E.R. stands for Seasonal Energy ,Efficiency Ratio, the standard measurement of air conditioning efficiency established by the U.S. Department of Energy. What does this mean to you? Higher S.E.E.R. ratings translate into greater energy efficiency which means lower electricity bills. The most important thing to remember is the higher the S.E.E.R. rating, the more money you save.

Why a higher efficiency rating (SEER) saves energy:
If your current air conditioner is more than 10 years old, it could be operating at lower than 8.00 S.E.E.R. If the annual cooling bill of an 8.00 S.E.E.R. system in a particular area is $1,000, it would cost only $615 for a 13.00 S.E.E.R. system to operate at the same capacity in the same area. This is an annual savings of 38%.

How often should I recharge my air conditioner with new freon?

A properly functioning air conditioner does not consume refrigerant (freon), so under ideal conditions it would never need changing or filling. A low freon level indicates a leak which should be repaired before adding more.

Geothermal Heat Pumps

2010-04-30T16:35:00.000-07:00

Geothermal Heat Pumps

Two 36-ton geothermal heat pumps used at the College of Southern Idaho.
The geothermal heat pump, also known as the ground source heat pump, is a highly efficient renewable energy technology that is gaining wide acceptance for both residential and commercial buildings. Geothermal heat pumps are used for space heating and cooling, as well as water heating. Its great advantage is that it works by concentrating naturally existing heat, rather than by producing heat through combustion of fossil fuels.

The technology relies on the fact that the Earth (beneath the surface) remains at a relatively constant temperature throughout the year, warmer than the air above it during the winter and cooler in the summer, very much like a cave. The geothermal heat pump takes advantage of this by transferring heat stored in the Earth or in ground water into a building during the winter, and transferring it out of the building and back into the ground during the summer. The ground, in other words, acts as a heat source in winter and a heat sink in summer.

The system includes three principal components:

•Geothermal earth connection subsystem
•Geothermal heat pump subsystem
•Geothermal heat distribution subsystem.

Earth Connection
Using the Earth as a heat source/sink, a series of pipes, commonly called a "loop," is buried in the ground near the building to be conditioned. The loop can be buried either vertically or horizontally. It circulates a fluid (water, or a mixture of water and antifreeze) that absorbs heat from, or relinquishes heat to, the surrounding soil, depending on whether the ambient air is colder or warmer than the soil.

Heat Pump Subsystem

For heating, a geothermal heat pump removes the heat from the fluid in the Earth connection, concentrates it, and then transfers it to the building. For cooling, the process is reversed.

Heat Distribution Subsystem

Conventional ductwork is generally used to distribute heated or cooled air from the geothermal heat pump throughout the building.

Residential Hot Water

In addition to space conditioning, geothermal heat pumps can be used to provide domestic hot water when the system is operating. Many residential systems are now equipped with desuperheaters that transfer excess heat from the geothermal heat pump's compressor to the house's hot water tank. A desuperheater provides no hot water during the spring and fall when the geothermal heat pump system is not operating; however, because the geothermal heat pump is so much more efficient than other means of water heating, manufacturers are beginning to offer "full demand" systems that use a separate heat exchanger to meet all of a household's hot water needs. These units cost-effectively provide hot water as quickly as any competing system.

Additional Information

For more specifics on geothermal heat pump systems, including types, benefits and selection and installation, visit these pages on the DOE Consumer's Guide Web site:

•Types of Geothermal Heat Pump Systems
•Benefits of Geothermal Heat Pump Systems
•Selecting and Installing a Geothermal Heat Pump System

To lean more about geothermal heat pumps, visit the International Ground Source Heat Pump Association, where you can search for local IGSHPA Accredited Installers, Trainers, and Certified Designers using their Business Directory. Information is also available from the Geothermal Heat Pump Consortium, which can help you can find a knowledgeable contractor in your area by using their GeoExchange Industry Directory.
While primarily intended for the energy managers of Federal facilities, DOE's Federal Energy Management Program does have information on purchasing and installing geothermal heat pumps that would be of help to commercial building owners or contractors on their heat pump Web page.

Indoor Air Quality Solutions

2010-04-29T18:46:00.000-07:00

Allergies

60,000,000 people in the United States are affected by allergies, and mold is one of the 5 most common allergens. The dark, cool and moist surfaces that typically exist in HVAC systems are very favorable places for mold growth. The spores released from the growth are distributed throughout the structure. Applying UV light in these vulnerable areas can make a huge difference in the spore counts in the air. In regions where the air is typically drier and mold growth is less of a problem, UV applied in the recirculating airstream passing through an HVAC system can make a significant reduction in the mold spore counts in indoor air. By reducing the density of mold spores, the indoor air quality is enhanced and allergy symptoms reduced.

Bacteria and Viruses

Fresh outside air is healthy to breathe in part because natural UV from the sun controls the level of airborne microorganisms.A UV Light brings UV indoors to help control microorganisms in indoor air. With a UV system installed in your HVAC system, the numbers of airborne bacteria and viruses that cause colds and other illnesses will be reduced as air is circulated through the system. With most people spending as much as 90% of their time indoors, optimizing indoor air quality becomes increasingly important. Today's advanced building techniques are another factor to consider when evaluating indoor air quality. To increase heating and cooling efficiency, and to add to indoor comfort, homes and commercial buildings are more airtight than ever. While efficiency and comfort goals may be achieved, an unintended effect is that with less outdoor air "leaking" into the indoor space, airborne organisms and other contaminants can accumulate. The HVAC system now has an increased role in maintaining indoor air quality -- adding UV disinfection along with filtration and other enhancements helps it fulfill that role.

Mold

That smell when the air conditioner turns on -- especially after it has been off for a while. What is it? Chances are it's MOLD, and those mold spores spread around, landing everywhere in the house. Or if mold is growing in a damp place elsewhere in the house, the air conditioner helps distribute the spores as the air is recirculated. UV can play an important -- if not vital -- role in controlling home damaging mold. As insurance companies raise rates and even exclude mold damage from their coverage, UV can be a big help -- consult your HVAC contractor.

MERV 11 Filtration

Most MERV 11 high capacity Media filters feature of thirty-two square feet of MERV 11 filtration folded into a five-inch compact pleated unit—it’s better than 99% efficient on pollen—and many other irritants such as dust mite allergen. The EPA considers MERV 11 premium performance for residential applications.

Odor Reduction

Photronic’s ReFresh odor reduction process, operates in much the same way as an automotive catalytic converter. The air passing through the refresh system comes in contact with a UV energized grid that is coated with an exclusive formulation containing titanium dioxide. The grid reacts with hundreds of odors (caused by VOCs) and breaks them down into harmless—and odorless—components.

Saving Energy

A UV system uses about the same amount of electricity as a standard light bulb. Yet it can help your HVAC system increase its efficiency, so you may use less power overall. When mold becomes established on cooling elements, it begins to insulate it from the passing air. This makes the heat transfer from the air to the elements more difficult. When this happens the HVAC system begins to run a little longer and then cycles more often to accomplish the same temperature setting. This obviously uses more energy and in addition, increases wear and tear on the system. Of course we recommend quality filtration to keep the elements as well as the UV lamps free of dust, then the UV will keep the mold away, and help to optimize efficiency.

Ductless, Mini-Split Heat Pumps

2010-04-28T17:40:00.000-07:00

Ductless, Mini-Split Heat Pumps
Ductless, mini-split-system heat pumps (mini splits) make good retrofit add-ons to houses with "non-ducted" heating systems, such as hydronic (hot water heat), radiant panels, and space heaters (wood, kerosene, propane). They can also be a good choice for room additions, where extending or installing distribution ductwork is not feasible.

Like standard air-source heat pumps, mini splits have two main components: an outdoor compressor/condenser, and an indoor air-handling unit. A conduit, which houses the power cable, refrigerant tubing, suction tubing, and a condensate drain, links the outdoor and indoor units.

Advantages
The main advantages of mini splits are their small size and flexibility for zoning or heating and cooling individual rooms. Many models can have as many as four indoor air handling units (for four zones or rooms) connected to one outdoor unit. The number depends on how much heating or cooling is required for the building or each zone (which in turn is affected by how well the building is insulated). Since each of the zones will have its own thermostat, you only need to condition that place when someone is there. This will save energy and money.

Ductless mini-split systems are also often easier to install than other types of space conditioning systems. For example, the hook-up between the outdoor and indoor units generally requires only a three-inch hole through a wall for the conduit. Also, most manufacturers of this type of system can provide a variety of lengths of connecting conduits. If necessary, you can locate the outdoor unit as far away as 50 feet from the indoor evaporator. This makes it possible to cool rooms on the front side of a building house with the compressor in a more advantageous or inconspicuous place on the outside of the building.

Since mini splits have no ducts, they avoid the energy losses associated with ductwork of central forced air systems. Duct losses can account for more than 30% of energy consumption for space conditioning, especially if the ducts are in an unconditioned space such as an attic.

In comparison to other add-on systems, mini splits offer more flexibility in interior design options. The indoor air handlers can be suspended from a ceiling, mounted flush into a drop ceiling, or hung on a wall. Floor-standing models are also available. Most indoor units have profiles of about seven inches deep and usually come with sleek, high tech-looking jackets. Many also offer a remote control to make it easier to turn the system on and off when it's positioned high on a wall or suspended from a ceiling.

Split-systems can also help to keep your home safer since there is only a small hole in the wall. Through-the-wall and window mounted room air-conditioners can provide an easy entrance for intruders.

Disadvantages
The primary disadvantage of mini splits is their cost. Such systems cost about $1,500–$2,000 per ton (12,000 Btu per hour) of cooling capacity. This is about 30% more than central systems (not including ductwork) and may cost twice as much as window units of similar capacity.

The installer must also correctly size each indoor unit and judge the best location for its installation. Oversized or incorrectly located air-handlers often result in short-cycling, which wastes energy and does not provide proper temperature or humidity control. Too large a system is also more expensive to buy and operate.

Some people may not like the appearance of the indoor part of the system. While less obtrusive than a window room air conditioner, they seldom have the built-in look of a central system. There must also be a place to drain condensate water near the outdoor unit.

Qualified installers and service people for mini splits may not be easy to find. In addition, most conventional heating and cooling contractors have large investments in tools and training for sheet metal duct systems. They need to use (and charge for) these to earn a return on their investment, so they may not recommend ductless systems except where a ducted system would be difficult for them to install.

Let Mold And Bacteria See The Light

2010-04-27T16:57:00.000-07:00

No matter how much you clean and disinfect, bacteria, mold and germs still
blow through the air in your home every time your heating and cooling system
turns on. Plus, your air conditioner’s moist cooling coil can serve as an ideal
breeding ground for mold. Ultraviolet treatment systems act as an additional line
of defense to help protect your family.
The UV lights in ultraviolet treatment systems are contained within your heating
and cooling system — right where bacteria and mold try to grow. Honeywell
coil irradiation models kill up to 99.9 percent of mold that could otherwise be
thriving on your system’s cooling coil. Airborne bacteria doesn’t stand much of a
chance, either, with up to 87 percent killed when passing by the system.

Save Energy, Save Money
When mold and mildew grow on your home's heating and cooling
equipment, the equipment has to work harder to try to maintain your
desired temperature. In addition, airflow can be diminished, causing
even more drop-off in efficiency. Plus, having your system’s coil
cleaned can be very expensive.
A surface treatment ultraviolet system is a much more cost-effective
choice. The UV lights keep your air conditioning coil clean to help
maintain energy efficiency and airflow. You’ll save money through
improved efficiency and by not needing to replace equipment or have
it cleaned. Even more, you’ll enjoy a more comfortable home because
your system will be better able to deliver the temperature and airflow
you desire.

Air Seal and Insulate

2010-04-26T11:14:00.000-07:00

Sealing Ducts

In houses with forced-air heating and cooling systems, ducts are used to distribute conditioned air throughout the house. In a typical house, however, about 20 percent of the air that moves through the duct system is lost due to leaks, holes, and poorly connected ducts. The result is higher utility bills and difficulty keeping the house comfortable, no matter how the thermostat is set.

How do you know that your home has poorly performing ducts?
you have high summer and winter utility bills;
you have rooms that are difficult to heat and cool;
you have stuffy rooms that never seem to feel comfortable;
your ducts are located in an attic, crawlspace, or the garage;
you find tangled or kinked flexible ducts in your system.
Benefits of Duct Sealing
A duct system that is well-designed and properly sealed can make your home more comfortable, energy efficient, and safer.

Learn more about the Benefits of Duct Sealing.

Simple Steps to Improving Duct Performance
Because ducts are often concealed in walls, ceiling, attics, and basements, repairing them can be difficult. But there are things that you can do to improve duct performance in your house.

Some homeowners choose to take on duct sealing as a do-it-yourself project. Start by sealing air leaks using mastic sealant or metal tape and insulating all the ducts that you can access (such as those in attics, crawlspaces, unfinished basements, and garages). Never use duct tape, as it is not long-lasting. Also, make sure that the connections at vents and registers are well-sealed where they meet the floors, walls, and ceiling. These are common locations to find leaks and disconnected ductwork.

Earth Day is a great time to commit to protecting the environment and saving energy.

2010-04-22T17:42:00.000-07:00

In a typical home, 43% of the utility bill goes toward heating and cooling. This site provides consumers with free and inexpensive strategies for saving energy and money through the warm spring and summer months, as well as energy-saving investments that can provide savings over the long term. You'll also find information on financial assistance for energy-saving improvements.
No-Cost and Low-Cost Tips to Save Energy This Summer
Here you'll find strategies to help you save energy during the spring and summer when the weather is warm and you are trying to keep your home cool. Some of the tips below are free and can be used on a daily basis to increase your savings; others are simple and inexpensive actions you can take to ensure maximum savings through the spring and summer.

If you haven't already, conduct an energy assessment to find out where you can save the most, and consider making a larger investment for long-term energy savings.

Also check out no-cost and low-cost tips to save energy during the winter.

Use Your Windows to Gain Cool Air and Keep Out Heat
If you live in a climate where it cools off at night, turn off your cooling system and open your windows while sleeping. When you wake in the morning, shut the windows and blinds to capture the cool air.
•Learn more about natural ventilation.
Install window coverings to prevent heat gain through your windows.
•Find out about window treatments and coverings that can improve energy efficiency.

Operate Your Thermostat Efficiently
Set your thermostat as high as comfortably possible in the summer. The smaller the difference between the indoor and outdoor temperatures, the lower your overall cooling bill will be.
Keep your house warmer than normal when you are away, and lower the thermostat setting to 78°F (26°C) only when you are at home and need cooling. A programmable thermostat can make it easy to set back your temperature.
•Find out how to operate your thermostat for maximum energy savings.
•Also see ENERGY STAR's June 5, 2008, podcast for video instructions on operating your programmable thermostat.
Avoid setting your thermostat at a colder setting than normal when you turn on your air conditioner. It will not cool your home any faster and could result in excessive cooling and unnecessary expense.

Use Fans and Ventilation Strategies to Cool Your Home

If you use air conditioning, a ceiling fan will allow you to raise the thermostat setting about 4°F with no reduction in comfort.
•Learn more about using a ceiling fan to increase cooling efficiency.
•Find ENERGY STAR ceiling fans.
Turn off ceiling fans when you leave the room. Remember that fans cool people, not rooms, by creating a wind chill effect.
When you shower or take a bath, use the bathroom fan to remove the heat and humidity from your home. Your laundry room might also benefit from spot ventilation. Make sure bathroom and kitchen fans are vented to the outside (not just to the attic).
•Find ENERGY STAR ventilating fans.

Keep Your Cooling System Running Efficiently
Schedule regular maintenance for your cooling equipment.
•Learn about operating and maintaining your air conditioner, evaporative cooler, or heat pump.
•Find guidelines on hiring a professional service for air conditioner maintenance.
Avoid placing lamps or TV sets near your room air-conditioning thermostat. The thermostat senses heat from these appliances, which can cause the air conditioner to run longer than necessary.
•Learn additional tips for operating a room air conditioner efficiently.
Vacuum registers regularly to remove any dust buildup. Ensure that furniture and other objects are not blocking the air flow through your registers.

Don't Heat Your Home with Appliances and Lighting

On hot days, avoid using the oven; cook on the stove, use a microwave oven, or grill outside.
Install efficient lighting that runs cooler. Only about 10%–15% of the electricity that incandescent lights consume results in light—the rest is turned into heat.
•Learn more about your options for efficient lighting.
•Find out when to turn off your lights.
•Purchase ENERGY STAR lighting products.
Take advantage of daylight instead of artificial lighting, but avoid direct sunlight.
•Learn more about strategies for efficient daylighting.
Wash only full loads of dishes and clothes. Consider air drying both dishes and clothing.
•Learn more about efficient dishwashing and laundry.
Take short showers instead of baths.
•Learn more ways to reduce your hot water use.
Minimize activities that generate a lot of heat, such as running a computer, burning open flames, running a dishwasher, and using hot devices such as curling irons or hair dryers. Even stereos and televisions will add some heat to your home.
•Learn more about avoiding heat buildup in your home

Keep Hot Air from Leaking Into Your Home

Seal cracks and openings to prevent warm air from leaking into your home.
•Learn more about air sealing new and existing homes.
Add caulk or weatherstripping to seal air leaks around leaky doors and windows.
•Find how to select and apply the appropriate caulk.
•Learn how to select and apply weatherstripping.
•Find out other ways to improve the energy efficiency of your windows.

Lower Your Water Heating Costs

Water heating can account for 14%-25% of the energy consumed in your home.
Turn down the temperature of your water heater to the warm setting (120°F). You'll not only save energy, you'll avoid scalding your hands.
•Find other strategies for energy-efficient water heating.

Tune up your HVAC equipment yearly

2010-04-20T19:25:00.000-07:00

Maintenance Checklist
Maintain your equipment to prevent future problems and unwanted costs. Keep your cooling and heating system at peak performance by having a contractor do annual pre-season check-ups. Contractors get busy once summer and winter come, so it's best to check the cooling system in the spring and the heating system in the fall. To remember, you might plan the check-ups around the time changes in the spring and fall.

A typical maintenance check-up should include the following.
Check thermostat settings to ensure the cooling and heating system keeps you comfortable when you are home and saves energy while you are away.
Tighten all electrical connections and measure voltage and current on motors. Faulty electrical connections can cause unsafe operation of your system and reduce the life of major components.
Lubricate all moving parts. Parts that lack lubrication cause friction in motors and increases the amount of electricity you use.
Check and inspect the condensate drain in your central air conditioner, furnace and/or heat pump (when in cooling mode). A plugged drain can cause water damage in the house and affect indoor humidity levels.
Check controls of the system to ensure proper and safe operation. Check the starting cycle of the equipment to assure the system starts, operates, and shuts off properly.
Cooling Specific
Clean evaporator and condenser air conditioning coils. Dirty coils reduce the system's ability to cool your home and cause the system to run longer, increasing energy costs and reducing the life of the equipment.
Check your central air conditioner's refrigerant level and adjust if necessary. Too much or too little refrigerant will make your system less efficient increasing energy costs and reducing the life of the equipment.
Clean and adjust blower components to provide proper system airflow for greater comfort levels. Airflow problems can reduce your system's efficiency by up to 15 percent.
Heating Specific
Check all gas (or oil) connections, gas pressure, burner combustion and heat exchanger. Improperly operating gas (or oil) connections are a fire hazard and can contribute to health problems. A dirty burner or cracked heat exchanger causes improper burner operation. Either can cause the equipment to operate less safely and efficiently.
Actions To Do Yourself
Inspect, clean, or change air filters once a month in your central air conditioner, furnace, and/or heat pump. Your contractor can show you how to do this. A dirty filter can increase energy costs and damage your equipment, leading to early failure.

Heating Challenge:

2010-04-19T13:50:00.000-07:00

As much as half of the energy used in your home goes to heating and cooling. So making smart decisions about your home's heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) system can have a big effect on your utility bills - and your comfort.

Heating Solutions:
Do it yourself
Change your air filter regularly
Check your filter every month, especially during heavy use months (winter and summer). If the filter looks dirty after a month, change it.

At a minimum, change the filter every 3 months. A dirty filter will slow down air flow and make the system work harder to keep you warm or cool - wasting energy.
A clean filter will also prevent dust and dirt from building up in the system - leading to expensive maintenance and/or early system failure.
Tune up your HVAC equipment yearly
Just as a tune-up for your car can improve your gas mileage, a yearly tune-up of your heating and cooling system can improve efficiency and comfort. Learn more: Maintain your Equipment: A Checklist

Install a programmable thermostat
A programmable thermostat is ideal for people who are away from home during set periods of time throughout the week. Through proper use of pre-programmed settings, a programmable thermostat can save you about $180 every year in energy costs.

Seal your heating and cooling ducts
Ducts that move air to-and-from a forced air furnace, central air conditioner, or heat pump are often big energy wasters. Sealing and insulating ducts can improve the efficiency of your heating and cooling system by as much as 20 percent - and sometimes much more.

Focus first on sealing ducts that run through the attic, crawlspace, unheated basement, or garage. Use duct sealant (mastic) or metal-backed (foil) tape to seal the seams and connections of ducts. After sealing the ducts in those spaces, wrap them in insulation to keep them from getting hot in the summer or cold in the winter. Next, look to seal any other ducts that you can access in the heated or cooled part of the house.

Hire a Contractor
Learn about how to hire a contractor, what kinds of tools they use and how to find a contractor in your area.

Weatherization Assistance Program

2010-04-18T06:13:00.001-07:00

Green Building Creates Green Jobs for a Green Economy

2010-04-17T15:59:00.000-07:00

Green building creates green jobs, and green jobs will be crucial as we build a new green economy.

A new Booz Allen Hamilton study released by USGBC on Wednesday, Nov. 11, at Greenbuild 2009 predicts green building will support or create 7.9 million jobs between 2009-2013 and will contribute $554 billion to the U.S. gross domestic product.
Download the full study (PDF) »
Download a slideshow summary of the report (PPT) »

USGBC and its members have been deeply engaged in the current and ongoing discussion of America’s new green economy. The resources on this page will help you harness the power of USGBC’s work, whether you use our Career Center to find a green job or study the research on the role of green building in a green economy to do your part in advocating for an economically and environmentally sustainable American future.

Find a Green Job
The USGBC Career Center was constructed to help connect our members (employees and recruiters alike) with new employment opportunities, including great green jobs.

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Green Building Education
LEED Accredited Professional
The LEED AP Credential will help you become a more attractive candidate for green jobs. Find out how to achieve accreditation at GBCI.org »

Greenbuild 365
USGBC’s diverse educational offerings will help you in your professional development as you search for jobs in the new green economy. Visit the Course Catalog to access USGBC's educational offerings »

Education Provider Program
Take the next step in your green building education with USGBC's Education Provider Program. This program provides access to high-quality, peer-reviewed courses for professionals seeking to go beyond LEED and enrich their knowledge of green building theories, techniques, and business trends. Give yourself the competitive edge in an emerging green economy. Visit the Education Program Provider page on USGBC.org for more information »

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Government Resources
USGBC has compiled a comprehensive set of resources for state and local governments looking to make green building part of their own green economic recovery under the federal economic stimulus plan. Resources include free Stimulus Plan Implementation webcasts, tools to help local and state governments apply the economic stimulus to green building projects, and other resources. Green Economic Recovery Resources. »

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Air-Source Heat Pumps

2010-04-13T07:59:00.000-07:00

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.

In cooling mode, an air-source heat pump evaporates a refrigerant in the indoor coil; as the liquid evaporates it pulls heat from the air in the house. After the gas is compressed, it passes into the outdoor coil and condenses, releasing heat to the outside air. The pressure changes caused by the compressor and the expansion valve allow the gas to condense at a high temperature outside and evaporate at a lower temperature indoors.
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

Products Eligible for Tax Credits Through 2010

2010-04-12T19:02:00.000-07:00

The products in this section are eligible for tax credits at 30% of the cost, up to a total credit of $1,500; they must be "placed in service" from January 1, 2009 through December 31, 2010. Select "See Details" under each section below for more information on each product.

Note that the $1,500 maximum limit is for all of the efficiency measures combined over the two-year 2009-2010 period; you can purchase up to $5,000 worth of products over the two years and get 30% or $1,500 as a tax credit. If you get the full $1,500 tax credit in 2009, you are not eligible for a tax credit on these products in 2010.

The maximum does not apply to geothermal heat pumps, solar energy systems, wind energy systems, and fuel cells, which have no upper limit and are listed below under "Products Eligible for Tax Credits Through 2016." You can receive both the tax credit capped at $1,500 and the tax credit for products with no upper limit. See the ENERGY STAR FAQ for more information on tax credit amounts.

Geothermal: Earth‐wise Energy

2010-04-06T19:44:00.000-07:00

Is a free and renewable source of energy too good to be true? Can the earth provide a means to heat and air
condition your home or business? Welcome to Geothermal Energy. Let’s look at how Geothermal Energy is being
used for heating and air conditioning.
Environmental awareness has become an important aspect in society today. This environmental awareness has seen
itself enter into air conditioning decisions. Although not the sole factor in decisions made by homeowners and
businesses for their air conditioning needs, most individuals would choose a solution that is environmentally
friendly, economically feasible and energy efficient. What better way to meet these requirements than to use the
earth itself to help heat and cool your home or business. According to the Department of Energy and the EPA,
geothermal systems are the most environmentally friendly way to accomplish this.
Geothermal systems, and more specifically Geothermal Heat Pumps, utilize the natural properties of the Earth to
dissipate or capture heat for the water loop. No matter your location or climate variations, the temperature below
ground stays fairly consistent, between 50 F and 60 F, all year. This ground temperature is warmer than the air
above it in the winter and cooler than the air in the summer. Geothermal Heat Pumps operate in an identical fashion
to Water-Source Heat Pumps without the need for cooling towers or boilers. Depending upon cooling or heating
mode, the system will either extract heat from the air inside the space and reject it back into the earth loop
(cooling); or, heat will be extracted from the ground and distributed to the space as warm air (heating).
Geothermal Earth Loops come in several different configurations. They are classified as either Closed Loop or
Open Loop systems. Closed-loop systems circulate a water based solution through high density polyethylene
underground pipes. Closed-loop systems can be installed horizontally, vertically or in a lake. Horizontal loops are
installed in trenches and run horizontally in the trenches. Vertical loops utilize small bore holes drilled into the
ground and have the loop pipe inserted into the bores. Lake loops, on the other hand, utilize an assembly of pipes
placed at the bottom of a pond or lake to accomplish the geothermal transfer. Open loop systems pump water from
a well or surface body of water and discharge the water into another body of water or water well.
By using the earth as your means of energy transfer, Geothermal Heat Pumps operate more efficiently than ordinary
heating and air conditioning systems. With efficiencies up to 30 EER, the energy savings over a conventional air
conditioning system can be substantial. Due to the huge energy savings of Geothermal Heat Pumps, the federal
government, the State of Florida and local utilities encourage and incentivize the use of Geothermal Heat Pumps.
On February 17, 2009, President Obama signed H.R. 1, the American Recovery and Investment Act of 2009. The
Act provided specific incentives for energy efficient residential and commercial HVAC equipment. The most
aggressive incentive in the act was directed towards Geothermal Heat Pumps. The act allows for an individual
Federal Tax Credit of up to 30% of the installed cost for geothermal heat pump installations in a residence. Unlike
capping the central air conditioning tax credit to $1,500, the 30% Federal Tax Credit for geothermal does not have a
cap on the total savings. For installations on commercial applications, there is a 10% Federal Tax Credit with no
limit as well. The Act also allows for accelerated depreciation benefits and a 50% first year “bonus” depreciation
for business property placed in service between 2008 and 2009.
On top of the cost benefits provided by the H.R. 1 Act, the state of Florida recognizes the energy efficiency benefits
and provides a further incentive to add Geothermal systems into a business or home. Under Florida law, the
Renewable Energy Property Tax Exemption, HB 7135, improved real property upon which a renewable energy
source device is installed and operated is entitled to an exemption in the amount of the original cost of the device,
including the installation cost. Per Amendment 3, this exemption is authorized for 10 years on a commercial
application; but can be authorized for more than 10 years on a residential application.
Many utilities throughout the state of Florida offer rebates to homeowners and business for use of energy efficient
air conditioning systems. Although not all may offer geothermal specific system rebates, the majority of utilities
offer rebates for high SEER or EER watersource systems. FPL, for example, offers up to a $1,000 rebate to
homeowners for 19+ EER watersource systems on residential applications. With some utilities, you may also work
directly with utility account managers on commercial projects to come up with incentives specific to a geothermal
designed project. Click on the “Utility Rebates For Your Area” on www.myfloridahvac.com to provide you with
links to all the rebates offered by utilities throughout Florida.